Bernard is a shy guy, so I rarely have opportunities to have a photo op with him. I saw an opportunity for one & snagged it. I’ll be nursing my scratch wounds later.

Bernard is my (almost) 3 year old orange tabby. I got him as a gift for my 21st birthday from my ex, when my then 1 year old female cat was becoming destructive when left alone for extended periods of time. Only one shelter in the area had kittens at the time, so I drove over to Animal Rescue League to pick out my new friend. I had my heart set on an all black kitten, but I could tell Bernard was special and I couldn’t pass him up.

We’ve had our ups & downs over the past 3 years. It can be frustrating having a pet that spends 90% of his time hiding. He’s very skittish, so any sudden movements and he’s running for his nearest hiding spot. On the other hand, he loves my other cat Cady and would probably be lost without her.

Anyway, spring is a big time for lots of cats & their kittens to be picked up by shelters (obviously dogs too, but I’m a cat person). If you’re in need of a new friend, or just want to donate to help feed & shelter those you can’t take care of yourself, here’s a few places to check out!!

Western Pennsylvania:

Animal Friends

Animal Rescue League

Washington Co. Humane Society

Chicago:

PAWS Chicago

I only listed the ones I’m familiar with so if you think I should have mentioned any other facilities, please let me know.

So, please share your pet adoption stories. How’d you meet your pet, and how did you know they were the one for you?