a post by the mom
This is the time of year when adoptions can slow for rescues and shelters. The Helen Woodward Foundation started Remember Me Thursday to shine a light on those animals still looking for their forever homes.
Kittens tend to always be adopted quickly. But what about others? What about the non-kittens: the older ones, the shy ones, bonded pairs, differently abled? Often overlooked by most, especially if they aren't outgoing and trying to catch the attention of people walking through a shelter or adoption center.
After over 20 years in rescue, I can tell you one very important thing: the cats that have been at a shelter the longest or seem more shut down are the ones that need you the most. And once they are home and feeling secure, they are the ones that will be the most appreciative. I can't begin to tell you the number of times people have said they were glad to have taken a chance on the ones no one else were looking at and then realized how much love they received once the cat decompressed. It may not be a quick process but it is always worth it. For reference, the common belief it can take 3 days to decompress, 3 weeks to adjust to new routines and 3 months to really relax in their new home. And these are just suggestions - each cat is different.
If you have the time and patience and right household, you will be rewarded so many times over. You can always search Petfinder for cats in your area. You can search by zip code and then narrow it down from there.
Keep in mind - if you can't adopt, rescues always need other forms of help. Money donations are always welcome and most rescues have wish lists on amazon or chewy. The shelter where I volunteer is CHA Animal Shelter and their wishlist is here.
Just sharing pictures of available adoptables on social media helps. Please be sure to include a link to the rescue and the city and state where they are located. If you can, check if they do adoptions that are not local as every rescue has different requirements.
Mostly be as supportive as you can. Give your time, your money, your voice. It all makes a difference.
Rescued is our favorite breed!
ReplyDeleteThank you for this, Jeanne. Your post is wonderful, and you are right. It's the shy, older, or differently abled cats that so often get overlooked. But adopt them, and you will see -- they will blossom in a stable and loving home!
ReplyDeleteA wonderful post, and a good reminder. I don't foresee adopting again - first, Saku would lose his mind and as I plan to travel as much as possible, I think it would be unfair to a cat or cats. But, I certainly can provide financial support and even perhaps volunteer.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the all the work you do, and being such an advocate for those in need.