This touching story from the Humane Society in Catawba County, North Carolina, will warm the heart of any animal lover.
Meet Gus, a 19-year-old shelter cat who was unfortunately surrendered to the Humane Society of Catawba County due to ‘unforeseen circumstances.’
Jane Bowers, executive director of the Humane Society of Catawba County, told Daily Paws that his original owner was “heartbroken” when they had to surrender him.
Anyone would understandably be saddened at the prospect of having to rehome their favorite animal. But, thankfully, this elderly cat’s journey does not finish there.
Gus was given a health exam at the shelter, and according to Bowers, he was in “exceptional health”—a great victory for a kitty approaching 20 years old!
Despite the shelter’s funding for extra health care and help from a sister site in Hickory, N.C. (the Pat Anderson Center for Animal Adoption and Humane Education), Bowers expressed concern that the cat might have to spend his golden years in a shelter.
It wouldn’t be long though before Bowers’ fears were alleviated. Soon after Gus arrived, the shelter director got an unexpected call from a family searching for a pet to keep their aging mother company.
They specifically inquired whether there was a senior cat available for adoption to match their mother’s seniority.
They specifically inquired whether there was a senior cat available for adoption to match their mothers. Penny, the family’s 101-year-old mother, had recently lost her cat, and despite the fact that they’d given her a plush cat to cuddle with instead, she wasn’t happy with something that didn’t purr.
“We were cautious because of the age of all parties, but the family said they were willing to care for the cat on behalf of their mother,” Bowers writes. It was a “match made in heaven” and therefore the adoption was sorted out quickly and smoothly.
It’s clear that this couple was meant to be, based on the gorgeous photos the shelter published on Facebook.
Gus is settling in nicely at his new residence and likes watching the squirrels outside their door.
“Our ♥️’s are full with this beautiful adoption. Our 19-year-old (133 in human years) Great-GrandPAW, has found the loving arms of his new mamma who is the ripe young age of 101.”
“Congratulations Gus-Gus! Wishing you the best days ahead watching squirrels and sharing your love and purrs!”
This heartwarming story shows that it’s never too late for a happy ending, no matter your age!