6 updates from furry friends and their new families
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.
Buttons
Genevieve was shopping at PetSmart when she saw an adorable kitten up for adoption from Best Friends. She commented to the adoptions staff, “That’s a cute kitten,” and then went on her way. But she didn’t leave the store. Instead, she purchased kitten supplies, came back with those supplies in tow, and proclaimed she was adopting that kitten, now named Buttons. Now that’s a cute story.
Banjo
If you think you know what a Banjo playing sounds like, you might be in for a surprise. When this Banjo plays, it’s with a clatter of running paws and big purrs. He’s even getting his new big brother involved in the performances, and the two of them are keeping their family endlessly entertained. Just read what they have to say about their new addition:
“Banjo is so playful and lively. This is him with our cat, Oakley, who we adopted from Best Friends last year. It took them a few days to warm up to each other, but they’re good pals now. Banjo loves cuddling, playing with toys, and chasing his tail. He also loves jumping out and scaring Oakley. He’s adorable, and everyone he meets loves him.”
Teddy
No matter what kind of dog you’re looking for, you can find the canine companion of your dreams at a shelter. Just take Teddy’s new family as an example. This couple had their hearts set on a Great Pyrenees — and just look who happened to be hanging out at our Northwest Arkansas center. They acted fast, and everyone’s dreams came true — especially Teddy’s because he got a home of his own.
Dansby
Let him eat cake! No, really, let him eat it all. A survivor of heartworm disease, Dansby was found running loose on a highway all on his own. But he landed in the lap of luxury with his foster family, and they all fell in love. When they realized he wasn’t going anywhere and adopted him, they marked the occasion with a celebratory adoption cake (suitable for pets, of course). Now he’s living the good life, keeping busy with puzzle toys and learning tricks. That’s what we call having your cake and eating it, too.
Hazel
Hazel’s been with her family for several years now, but every day is another new adventure. Not only has she brightened her favorite new person’s life, but she’s also bringing comfort to many, many more with her gentle purrs and soft kitty kisses:
“I adopted Hazel five years ago, and she is the most remarkable cat. She does therapy work with hospice and children. She was amazing on her visit with a particularly lonely boy in a children’s home. She sleeps under the covers with me, curled up in the curve of my stomach. Hazel is funny, smart, kind, and so loving. I am so glad she chose me!”
Leopard
If you’ve found “the one,” you know what it’s like: Your heart gets all warm and fuzzy as soon as your eyes meet theirs. And that is exactly what happened when Beck met Leopard. He looked up at his mom and said: “Mama, that’s the one,” and that was that. It looks like Leopard was thinking the same thing, and the two boys have been snuggled up together ever since. And really, is there anything sweeter than a kid and his kitten?
This article was originally published in the March/April 2023 issue of Best Friends magazine. Want more good news? Become a member and get stories like this six times a year.