There are no tips. Building an engaged, empowered group requires vision; owner and management buy-in; financial, technical, educational, and well-being support; and ancillary support services that enable rather than frustrate.

The fact that these are so rare may give an idea of how difficult they are to sustain. (Caveat: based on my US-only experience.)

Our Lyra is a vocal girl, too. Every little thing engenders a “mrrp.” Drives us crazy sometimes. She’s a very smart cat and I think she’s frustrated she can’t talk like the Big Cats.

We like all cats, but big cats are just big, solid creatures. As the song goes, “I like big cats and I cannot lie.”

We have a Maine Coon named Lyra. She insists on being heavily involved in everything we do. We should get our girls together, maybe they’ll teach each other to chill. 😄