7 pet adoption stories worth celebrating

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.

It’s a party! And what better reason to celebrate than adopting an adorable orange kitten like Spud? The little guy went from homeless to home and is loving it. His new person says, “He has made our home his castle, and we are his loyal servants. We are just absolutely obsessed with him and can’t be more grateful for him being a part of our family.”

When it’s love at first sight, the right kitty is worth waiting for. That’s how Woodstock’s new person felt:

“This November will mark seven years since I visited Best Friends. I was moving back east from L.A. and decided that I couldn’t leave the West until I checked visiting the Sanctuary off my bucket list. In touring the cattery, this incredibly beautiful and loving tabby came right up to me and purred, snuggling into my arms. That was it! But I couldn’t take him with me, and I explained to the adoption counselor about my move. Once I settled into my new home, he was flown from Utah to Atlanta, where I picked him up. I named him Woodstock, and he’s been the most affectionate companion ever.”

What’s black and white and runs all over? A sweet cat named Rena, according to her adopters: “Rena is such a fun kitty — always on the go. When she finally poops out (which is seldom), she’ll curl up on your lap and sleep. She just adores Tora, our tabby. They play with and groom each other.”

“Pick me! Pick me!” Berry doesn’t hide his feelings, and he was so excited about the prospect of meeting these two potential adopters that he showered them with affection. After all, who could possibly resist sweet little kitty kisses? Not these two! Putting on a persuasive display, soon Berry was on his way home — looking forward to many more hugs and cuddles in the future.

What’s better than one adoption? Two of them! Denny and Stormy didn’t know each other very well before they were adopted together, but they have settled into their new life beautifully. From their adopters: “They roughhouse a great deal with one another, and the next minute they’re grooming each other and playing nicely together. They are a joy and have brought us so much happiness.”

Potato is a dog with nine lives. He was at risk in a shelter, then beat heartworm disease, then needed emergency surgery to remove part of a stuffed toy that he ate. He was also known for his boundless energy. Well, Potato wasn’t the right fit for anyone for a while — until the Harmon family came along. They have a soft spot for pit bull terrier types and were instantly smitten with the sweet pup.

After arriving at Best Friends, Elle had to have one of her legs amputated to keep her healthy, happy, and hopping forward. She took the surgery and recovery in stride, her bright personality on full display now that she was feeling better. Then, it wasn’t long before she was adopted and got the best seat in the house: in her person’s lap, enjoying the sunshine.