6 pet adoption updates to make you smile

Gray cat in a kennel in a shelter
From cats steeped in fantasy to a strapping young pooch, these pets are living (and loving) large in their new homes.
By Best Friends staff

No matter how big or small, young or old, it’s a magical moment when homeless pets have new families to love them. The wagging tails, rumbling purrs and smiling faces are all the proof we need of that. From coast to coast, Best Friends Animal Society helps thousands of pets find new homes each year, and every adoption is a cause for celebration (and maybe a few happy tears).

That joy is worth sharing, so here are just a few of the dogs and cats who have recently settled into their new lives with their new favorite people.

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Oberon

We thought Oberon was only named after the king of fairies, but he certainly knows how to charm people. Just see what his new family has to say about the fanciful feline:

“We are so delighted that we brought Oberon home with us. What a clever, smart, funny and cheerful cat (who thinks he’s a dog). He loves to talk to us and frequently tells us how he’s feeling. He gives you his affection by touching your nose with his and gently purring. And he loves to sleep on our pillow or around our heads like he’s a beanie. When he wants a belly rub, he falls in front of you and rolls onto his back. Oberon has won all of our hearts.”

Hadley

Hadley was in awe when she was led out of her room at the Best Friends Lifesaving Center to go home with her new person — and it was clear from her nose to her toes. “Are you my dad?” she seemed to ask, with excited sniffs and big eyes. Yes, Hadley, Christopher is your new dad, and you have so much to look forward to. So does Christopher, who says: “Hadley is wonderful, cuddly, playful and an absolute bundle of joy.”

CrossFit Tony

CrossFit Tony got his name because, well, he’s super fit. But he’s not just a pretty face. For most of his life, the sweet boy bounced between homes because he struggled with separation anxiety, but then longtime volunteer Tessa stepped in to foster him. Tony settled in so beautifully (including befriending her other dog) that Tessa decided his transient days were over. Now he’s officially part of her family.

Domovoi

Well, well, well … another mythical being seems to have hidden himself away in cat form here. And now that Domovoi’s found his person, he’s not shy about it:

“Ceviche’s new name is Domovoi, aka Domo. In Slavic mythology, a domovoi is a mischievous shape-shifter who protects the inhabitants of a house from harm and doesn’t like being alone. Domo is a total embodiment of his name. He is happiest when he is being cuddled. Every day, he runs to the door when I come home and jumps into my arms. I love him so much and am grateful he’s in my life.”

Greg

Say cheese! Greg is a big, beautiful senior dog who originally came from a busy household filled with family members, so he’s right at home with these three young boys. He’s already proving to be the best big brother anyone could hope for. A little bit of gray fur isn’t going to slow him down when it comes time to play catch, and he’s certainly ready to help with homework (it’s fun to chew on).

Filburt

Filburt is as sweet as the nut he’s named after, and with his beautiful orange-marmalade coat, he’s a delightful treat all on his own. And like any irresistible goody, Filburt quickly got scooped up and taken home. Now Jaqueline’s got a sweet new best friend to enjoy for a long, long time to come — and Filburt is nuts about her.

This article was originally published in the January/February 2023 issue of Best Friends magazine. Want more good news? Become a member and get stories like this six times a year.