caramel tabby Cocoa, a stunning female domestic long hair. I could tell my dear wife was excited at the prospect of adopting her.

I was impressed but my attention had been drawn to the cage below. There looking up at me, was a magnificent mackerel tabby. The honesty and intensity of her gaze captured me immediately, and I was smitten. We agreed to adopt both cats, and so it began.

Tinkerbelle or 'Tinker' as she was named had been one of a litter of urban ferals, not unused to human presence. However, Tinker was at first shy and wary, and it took a few months for this sweet girl to feel at home. Tinker had some anxiety issues and could be easily frightened, but she had a gentle, generous and loving nature.

After I retired I had much more time to spend around our pets and I soon began to find endless pleasure in observing and communicating with them. Tinker became my constant companion, and her loving and devotional response to my affections blossomed into an inseparable bond. We were living the good life together.

I will always remember Tinker as the 'shepherd' cat, rounding Mary and I up to go to bed, staying with us until the lights went out, or directing my attention to her half empty bowl for refilling.

Tinker, intelligent, communicative, protective and loving; if there was a regret, it was that I didn't have a chance to see her in the role she would have cherished, that of being a mother, for that would have been a beautiful thing, and another story. Shared by Tinker's Main Man & Dad, Bill Carson

Tinker was such a beautiful kitty, loving and giving. Although she was definitely Daddy's girl, I had my special place with her as well and she often seemed at her best when sharing quality time with both of us. Shared by Tinker's Mom, Mary Carson