Since I started working at the Bangor Humane Society six months ago I have had a variety of reactions from people I meet on a day-to-day basis, but by far the most common is “I don’t know how you can work there!”

Sometimes this is because they are painfully aware of the reality and sad consequences of pet overpopulation. More often, it is because they know how quickly and easily we humans give our hearts to our furry, fluffy companions, and can’t imagine seeing them suffer every day.

In fact it is the extraordinary nature of this human-animal bond that keeps me, my staff and all the other animal welfare professionals around the state caring for the unwanted, abused and homeless animals in our communities. There is nothing as wonderful as seeing a dog or cat reunited with its owner – or forming a new, loving relationship with an adoptive guardian. Just the look in their eyes makes us smile and warms our hearts.

It is well known that owning a pet can reduce our blood pressure, make us live longer and keep us fit. More important, however, our pets make us happy. They want to spend time with us and show us how they appreciate us far more than we know we deserve. As someone once said, “If only I could be the person my dog thinks I am.”

At the Humane Society, we celebrate the human-animal bond every day as we watch it change the lives of the people who use our adoption service. We also share the celebration with the wider community each year at our annual fund-raising walk.

This year on Saturday, Oct. 4, our 10th annual Paws on Parade will be a joyful march of people and dogs along the Bangor Waterfront and down Main Street.

There will be music and lots of doggie demonstrations of agility and skill. Best of all, there will be people and their dogs walking and having fun in celebration of their relationship and in support of our work.

All walkers are welcome, with or without dogs. Registration is $15 on parade day or $10 in advance. More details are available at www.bangorhumane.org.

Becky Brimley is executive director of the Bangor Humane Society, 693B Moun. Hope Ave., Bangor; 942-8902.