Heya,

I live in a place with a lot of strays; dogs and cats alike. People generally aren’t too bad about here, unlike other places. But you bet, I turn cold and stare anyone dead in the eyes who scares them or so much as lifts a hand when I’m around. Nobody hurt them while I was around so far, thank god.

But it’s a pack of six. They come running whenever they see me and even follow me around a bit, which makes me feel like some kind of shepherd. The bond is only growing. But I’m moving soon. And it’s painful to even write this.
I absolutely can not take any of them in, or find someone who would. The stray-rescue pipeline in my circles is already clogged.

So this is the reality. Me gone, and them here.

Should I have been colder towards them? Should I stop petting them so much and stuff? Please tell me the separation won’t be too tough on them.

Any other tips would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!