Influence Positively Interview - Tamara Fox
Tamara Fox is administrator of the AAHA Helping Pets Fund. She has been associated with the Helping Pets Fund since its launch in 2005. The AAHA Helping Pets Fund works with AAHA-accredited veterinary practices in the United States and Canada to provide grants for emergency and urgent veterinary care to pets in need. A lifelong animal lover, her experience with the Fund and contact with other pet advocates has inspired her to find ways to improve the lives of animals, and to educate others about their needs, at every opportunity.
What is your idea of perfect happiness? Warm sunshine, my cats alongside me, a cup of tea, a book…Those moments when I can be content with things as they are, but positive about what is still to come. I need a sense of purpose to be happy. My pets are one important purpose in my life – caring for them, giving them what they need to be healthy and happy. My job at the AAHA Helping Pets Fund is also very important to me. I truly believe in what we do and want the Fund to succeed. Sadly, there are very few programs like ours and millions of pets in need. It makes what we do a struggle sometimes, but one that is well worth it.
If you could come back as a dog or a cat, which one would it be & why? I would come back as a cat, preferably a well-loved and well-cared-for cat, because so many cats are homeless or in less than ideal circumstances. I admire cats for their strength, serenity, intelligence and quirkiness. I also love books and so do cats, though they seem to prefer laying on them to reading them. To me, paradise is a cozy library full of books and cats. I could be either a patron or one of those cats and be happy.
What is your pets most treasured possession? I think it’s me! My cats depend on me for their care, but I honestly believe the bond between us goes much deeper than that. They seek me out often, for food, comfort, fun, and affection. And, yes, I am their possession – not the other way around.
Your proudest achievement so far? I hope my finest achievements are still to come, both personally and professionally. I am happy that I can still believe the best is yet to come and actively seek ways to make it so. We can always do good – in large and small ways. I am very proud to be a part of the AAHA Helping Pets Fund. I joined the American Animal Hospital Association Foundation just prior to the launch of the Helping Pets Fund, and it’s been a large part of my life for the past six years. It is an honor to be part of a group that tries to make the world better for others.
Who are your heroes in real life? My heroes have always been my grandparents. They taught me the importance of living whole-heartedly, of putting yourself into your work. I admire those who dedicate themselves to a purpose – through whatever avenue they have open to them – and leave the world a better place than they found it. That’s really all any of us can hope to do!