Adopt a Cat Month®: Introducing some of our newest cat parents
By Madeleine Devost
June is Adopt-a-Cat-Month®. Started by the American Humane Association in 1974, the month marks an opportunity for animal shelters and rescue organizations like the Humane Society of Loudoun County (HSLC) to encourage the public to adopt rather than shop for feline companionship. Here are two recent stories that show how wonderful adopting can be.
Melissa and Jeff found their new best friend after he was rescued along with 35 other cats from a home eviction in Stephens City (read the full rescue story here). The pair have adopted several cats over the years. They usually adopt older animals that need extra love but made an exception with Felix (originally named Foxy). The couple immediately fell in love with his playful and boisterous personality. Felix is just over a year old and loves to relax and spend time cuddled up on the couch. He has brought so much joy to this forever family.
Another one of our new parents, Jacqueline, adopted three kittens after the passing of her Weimaraner at the age of 15. Jacqueline stated that she knew it was time to open her home to more rescues, particularly cats. After she and her family reviewed pictures of a new litter with three kittens –Peaches, Archie, and Toby– they felt an instant connection. Thankfully, not wanting to separate the siblings, Jacqueline and her family adopted all three!
After two weeks in their new home, the kittens have all developed unique personalities: Archie the “snuggler”, Toby the “couch potato,” and Peaches the “regal queen.” Jacqueline highlighted how much joy the kittens have brought to the household, racing up the stairs and sitting in the windowsills to watch the passerby. She loves that the kittens bring such a unique energy to her home.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, HSLC has taken extra measures to ensure that potential adopters feel comfortable meeting our cats. Melissa and Jeff shared that they felt very safe throughout the adoption process and were excited to be able to meet Felix in person before adopting. Likewise, Jacqueline found the process to be safe and seamless, noting “It’s clear that HSLC really cares about the animals they are placing.”
If you are interested in adopting a cat through HSLC, please visit our website to view the available animals and complete an application.