Local shelter one of three to earn $2,500 donations from national campaign
The Humane Society for Southwest Washington was one of three shelters that earned a $2,500 donation from a national campaign to celebrate senior shelter cats.
The “Senior Tails” program, presented by Arm and Hammer Feline Generous program and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, is held each June in honor of Adopt a Shelter Cat Month and is designed to highlight older cats who are often overlooked for adoption.
The press release announcing the winners noted the senior cats are “purrfect catpanions” and loveable.
The Humane Society for Southwest Washington (1100 NE 192nd Ave, Vancouver) was selected from a story sent in by Amy Libby.
“My husband and I adopted Duncan in July of 2017. Pushing 13, it was the third time he’d been up for adoption from the shelter. … Duncan’s funny walk and wiggly ways charmed us.”
Amy and her husband learned to care for an older cat with medical issues, and they were rewarded with “a funny, purring old man cat snuggled between our pillows” every night.
The family had to say goodbye to Duncan recently. His medical issues dictated that very difficult decision.
“I miss my OldManCat every day,” Libby wrote. “But I wouldn’t give up a single moment of the time we had with him.”
Libby noted how much she appreciates that the Humane Society for Southwest Washington does not euthanize for space. The shelter goes out of its way to find homes for senior cats.
Shelters in Liberty, Ill., and Conway, NH., also received $2,500 donations.
“Arm and Hammer believes every cat deserves to find a safe and loving home,” said Rebecca Blank, group brand manager for Arm and Hammer Pet Care. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to team up with the ASPCA and help raise even more awareness for why senior cats make wonderful pets. As described in our winning “Senior Tails” submissions older cats can bring a sense of comfort, extra cuddles and care to people and other animals.
“We hope more cat lovers keep this in mind when considering adoption and appreciate everything these shelters are doing to make sure every cat has the best possible chance to be adopted no matter what their age.”
The Feline Generous program by Arm and Hammer provides an online platform that connects people to a network of local cat shelters across the country.
