More Success Stories
See our most recent adoption success stories here!
Nadia (black & white) and Phoebee (gray tabby)
Two very young kittens were rescued at a commercial building and were taken in by a young couple. The couple knew that they couldn't keep the kittens but they knew they could keep them safe until the two girls found their "forever" family. CIW was contacted to see if we could help. Phoebee (the shyer girl) and Nadia (the adventurous one) grew into beautifully social kittens. Then along came a neat couple who had lost their companion kitty and were ready to invite another kitty or two into their family. When they met Nadia and Phoebee, they knew these were the kittens for their family. In fact the kittens picture lived on the fridge until the girls arrived in body! How wonderful! Have a happy and long future together!
Sparkie (black & white) and Zest (black)
Help! We have a mom cat who just had two kittens in our back yard! What do we do? CIW helped keep the Mom cat and the kittens together for 5 weeks. Then the kittens and the Mom were trapped. The Mom cat was spayed and returned to the family who will continue to care for her. The kittens came to CIW. Their foster mom helped the kittens grow up to be wonderfully curious, social little boys. Then, just at the right time, along came just the right family who were looking for 2 kittens to join their family. Sparkie and Zest (now Fluffy) spoke to them and a match was made. The boys have a great family to care for and love them and a nice big home where they can run, play, grow and be safe for many years to come. What lucky kittens! What a lucky family!
Buddy
So many animals come to CIW because they have been dumped or abandoned. They turn up in yards or on the street and we get a call to see if we can help. These are the lucky animals because somebody cared and called and we try to help as many as we can. These are only a small fraction of the animals that have been abandoned. So many of the abandoned animals just disappear because they are killed by raccoons, wild cats, coyotes, dogs, cars, infection or starvation. Buddy was an abandoned cat. He turned up in a coast side neighborhood. The residents were canvassed but no one recognized this very social kitty! The family who took him in had quite severe cat allergies. So the call went out for a foster family. A family whose resident kitty had crossed Rainbow Bridge a few months earlier, came to his rescue. They fell in love with their new Buddy and asked if they could adopt him. We said "Yes!" and Buddy found the family who had been waiting for him. Congratulations to you all!
Trudy
A young dog was surrendered to the Palo Alto Animal Services. She had cherry eye, was dirty, matted, and traumatized. She was dreadfully scared of hands and feet but she really liked people. PAAS fixed her physical problems - her cherry eye and spayed her but felt that more beneficial to her would be more personal time in a family setting rather than in a shelter setting. So CIW was contacted. With time Trudy's trust level increased to the point that she would seek out pats and hands to lift her into a lap. She even began to enjoy being brushed and getting rid of the matts in the coat! She was still a little nervous around feet. She was healing and trusting. Just at the right time, a wonderful couple asked to meet her and fell under her spell! They asked that Trudy become a member of their family. What a terrific idea! Happy future to you all!
Spencer
No one can say that Spencer's life has been a smooth ride. As far as we know, it started out okay. Then everything started to unravel. His caretaker's job changed and she couldn't care for Spencer and his sister. So she found them a new home. Shortly after the move, their new caretaker had to go into hospital for an extended stay. That's when Spencer and his sister came to CIW. They found a lovely young couple who fell in love with them. Unfortunately, less than a year later, Spencer's sister passed away very unexpectedly. Even introducing another female cat didn't help and Spencer started acting out showing that he was very unhappy. In an apartment, that doesn't work. Now Spencer has finally found his comfort place. Spencer's foster family has decided that this home is his "forever" home and we are so happy for you all. Spencer, you are so deserving of a "happily ever after!"
Emmy (nee Lily nee Amber)
Three little black female puppies came to CIW early in 2007. In almost no time, each puppy found a wonderful family who invited them to be a member of their family. Everything was great but as the puppies grew their needs grew too. Amber/Lily tried to tell her family that she was bored and lonely and she needed a job. What she succeeded in doing was barking and upsetting the neighbors. Her family felt they had to return her to CIW. Due to circumstances shortly thereafter, Lily's foster mom needed to find an emergency substitute foster home for Lily and called on a long time friend who is a fabulous dog person. Then a remarkable thing happened. Lily won her way into the hearts of all the family! They gave her a new name and asked if she could become a member of their family. We were so happy to say "Yes!" Now Emmy has children to play with, ducks, chickens, horses and goats to keep track of, a Mom to run with and most of all humans to love her and for her to love and look after. Totally awesome!
Ruby
At the end of May a young Jack Russell terrier was found wandering in a park in Palo Alto. She had not collar or micro-chip but it was clear that she had had puppies. No one came looking for her at the Palo Alto Animal Services. Ruby was spayed and micro-chipped and then she waited for her "forever family" but again no one came. So Ruby became the latest dog to be borrowed by CIW. It didn't take long before a son's call to his parents brought a couple to meet Ruby. She charmed them as she had all of us. They decided she was just the dog to join their family and so she did! Ruby now has what we wish for all our companion animals - a loving forever family! Yippee!!
Josie
Josie was chosen as a young cat, to help an elderly gentleman with the last part of his life. She did a great job and she missed him terribly after he passed away. Not long after another family crisis arose that would take her Mom away for extended periods. Mom felt that Josie deserved more than to be left by herself so CIW was contacted. A few weeks later, a lady stopped by one of the Adoption Fairs and met Josie. She wanted her husband to meet Josie too. When he did, he knew immediately that Josie was meant to be a part of their family. Josie life has been in a turmoil for a few months and Josie's new family understand. Josie is learning that this is her "forever home" and these are her "forever family" and she likes what is happening! How wonderful when there's a happy ending!
Hannah
We don't know what Hannah's young life was like before the hurricane hit Puerto Rico but fate was looking after her. She was rescued and was brought to the US and adopted. The first lady who adopted her left her alone for days at a time in an apartment but luckily that phase of her life was very short before fate took charge and she was rescued again. This time she found a wonderful lady who helped her regain her confidence and learn her good manners. This lady also recognized that there must be a better family for this young energetic dog. CIW was asked to help. At the right time, a family with a young, shy, German Shepherd met Hannah. The two canine sisters took to each other almost immediately. The family thought Hannah was just who they had been seeking to join their family. The family say that they don't know how their Shepherd Lola, lived without Hannah! We're so excited for you all!
Noir and Sparky
Seven kittens were recovered from a back yard. The first 3 boys were very young when they came to CIW. They grew into wonderfully sweet playful kittens. Two of the brothers played together and slept together most of the time. They loved being together! Along came a lovely family who wanted to invite 2 kittens to join their family. They met Noir and Sparky (now called Jake) and knew that these brothers would fit their family purrfectly! And so they do! Now the boys will grow up with each other and a canine sister as well as their humans. What a lucky family you are!
Lovey
Lovey was found in a group of feral cats. She was rubbing against the legs of the fellow who looked after the cats. She wanted to be picked up and cuddled. She wasn't feral! Where did she come from? How did she get there? No one knows and Lovey isn't talking. It was clear that she didn't belong with the ferals so CIW was asked if we could help. Lovey was checked over, vaccinated, tested, spayed and pronounced ready to find her forever family. At one of the Adoption Fairs, one of the sales assistants met Lovey and felt her purr in her arms. A match was made! She knew that she wanted Lovey to be a part of her family. Now Lovey has another kitty, 3 dogs and her new Mom and Dad to love and from whom to receive cuddles. That's one lucky family! Lovey, you are one lucky kitty!
Gabby and Jack
So many people and their companion animals have been affected by the economic downturn. Jack's first Mom lost her home. She couldn't find a place for her and Jack. She decided that Jack needed to find a family where he could be safe and happy and who would love him as much as she does. We will never know how Gabrielle (Gabby) turned up in a group of feral cats. The fellow who looks after the group realized that Gabby didn't belong with the group. He contacted CIW to see if we could help find Gabby the home she deserved. We were able to help both these young cats. A wonderful family was looking for 2 special kitties to join their family. They saw Jack and Gabby and knew that they had found the newest members of their family. Jack and Gabby have an older feline brother and sister and an older canine sister as well as their Mom, Dad and 2-legged sister! Lucky Gabby and Jack - lucky family!!!
Billy
Young Billy was rescued from the streets of Mountain View and taken to the Palo Alto Animal Services. He was filthy dirty with matted fur and infected, dirty ears. He had no "in-house good manners" but lots of puppy enthusiasm and bounce. He was given a bath, a grooming and a neuter. He was with CIW for some weekend fairs but we knew his stumbling block would be his behavior in the home. So Billy became a Companions' dog. It didn't take long for this smart little boy to be REALLY ready for his "forever" family. Not long afterward a young couple met Billy. They had been interviewing dogs to see which one would be a fit for their family. After they met Billy, they both said," We've found him!" Billy knew too! He has his new Mom and Dad, his own home, and lots of toys. He was beside himself with happiness! We wish you a long and happy life together!
Chai
What do you do when your world suddenly turns upside down and all the familiar faces and places are gone? What happens when you are also a shy kitty? Chai was so scared that all she wanted to do was hide in her bed and hope that when she put her head out, everything would be back to normal. She soon saw that nice folks were looking after her and her sweet personality started to re-emerge. Then there were the Adoption Fairs - OH NO! No Bed! There was no place to hide except under the mat! A wonderful mother and daughter saw Chai and recognized that she needed a quiet home with no stress - their home! Now Chai has the purrfect quiet place for a shy kitty. She has people who think she is beautiful (so she is), who love her and to whom she can give all her love! You can't beat that combination!
Eliza
In December 2008, we had a phone call from Jennifer Celestre of Able Body Pet Care. She had just rescued a very young puppy from a very bad situation. She asked if CIW would help her place the puppy when the puppy was old enough. Our answer was "Yes!" Eliza's foster moms made sure she was a healthy, happy and a good "in home" family member. We made sure that Eliza was spayed and micro-chipped. When the time was right, along came a wonderful young couple who had been looking for a puppy to join their family. They had wanted a puppy who could go hiking with them. Eliza just fit the bill. Eliza is a very lucky little girl and now she is part of a wonderful family who have adopted this "fair young lady"!
Davy
In May 2007, four young kittens were trapped and rescued at an apartment complex. One kitten is in her "forever" home. One of the boys was also adopted by a great couple but their travel life style and a resident older cat who was not happy with the kitten, made for a not peaceful, happy home life. So Davy came back to CIW where he met Whisper. These two kitties began playing together, sleeping together and were a delight to their foster family. Then one night, Davy's foster dad was holding Davy in his arms and Davy was looking at him with undisguised adoration. What was there to do?The rest is history. Davy has joined his feline sisters, Whisper and Celine and canine brothers, Trevor and Nicky as well as Mom and Dad to make one big happy family. Perfect!
Dexter
In July 2007, we had a phone call from one of CIW's wonderful volunteers. Her daughter had called to say a neighbour had just come to her door saying he and the family were moving but they weren't taking their two older brother cats. Would she find them a home? -and he left. We were asked if CIW could help? The boys received a health check and vaccinations before they came. One brother, Winston, was found to be in chronic renal failure. He passed away with us in late 2008. The other brother, Dexter, was hyper thyroid and has been getting 1/2 pill once a day. Dexter is outgoing and was the kitty social butterfly at many of the CIW Adoption Fairs. Although he was admired, as soon as people heard his age and that he had a controlled medical problem, he was passed by. Then Dex's angel and her Dad came into an Adoption Fair and she met Dexter. His age and disability didn't matter. His personality won the day. Now Dexter has his own "forever" people, two dogs and a kitty sister to get to know. You deserve the best Dexter and they've found you! How perfect is that?!
Puck
Last year the Palo Alto Animal Services was overloaded with wonderful small dogs. The problem was that their forever families were not appearing. CIW began a new program with PAAS. CIW would borrow one or two of the dogs and take them to our Fairs. They would stay in a foster home overnight. Not only did it give the dogs another chance to be seen but it gave everyone a chance to see how the dogs behaved in a home setting. Tux was one of the dogs we borrowed. We found that Tux was not completely house trained although he was 7 years old. Taking him back to the shelter was not helping him learn his household good manners. So at his age and with this problem, his chance of having a successful adoption was greatly reduced. So Tux became a CIW dog. It didn't take long before Tux was REALLY ready to find his family. We thought we had found his family but Tux knew better. Now, seeing him with his new Mom and Dad, it is very clear that Tux has found the family that was meant for him. They decided that he needed a new name. Now his mischievous personality is rewarded with a mischievous name - Puck! He won't need a love potion. The mutual love is there for all to see!!! Yeah!
Annie
In Dec. '08 a call came from a friend. Her neighbor's sister was having to move and could not take her cats. She had found a home for two of the kitties but the third was not placed and time was running out. Could CIW help? The third kitty had a special feature - she was a polydactyl (she had an extra toe on each front foot). One of the ladies who had filled in an application was interested in adopting a polydactyl cat. She was contacted about taking Lionox on as an emergency foster and she agreed. As she got to know Lionox, she fell in love with her. She gave her a new name - Annie, and asked if she could become Annie's "forever mom". We were happy to agree! What a super conclusion for a beautiful young kitty in peril!
Dennis and Peggy Sue
Early in 2008 a call came from a family, "We've got kittens in our garage! Can you help?" and help we did. Two of the siblings found their "forever family" last year. Everyone wondered why Dennis and Peggy Sue had not been discovered by their special family when out of the blue, a call came this year. The caller asked, " Are Dennis and Peggy Sue were still looking for their "forever family?" They were but as it turned out, not for long! Dennis can romp and play with his new Dad and gentle Peggy Sue and cuddle with her new Mom. Their new family think that they have the best kittens, and so they do. We are so happy for you all!
Katie and Emily
In 2008, four kittens and their Mom were trapped in the parking lot of a business on El Camino Real. Two of the sisters found their family last year. Katie and her sister Emily have been patiently waiting for just the right family for them. When she was trapped Emily had a serious eye injury that caused a loss of sight in one eye. That doesn't slow her down one little bit! The sisters look out for each other, play together and are each other's best friends. We hoped that there would be a special family who would recognize what wonderful kittens these sisters are. Along came that family on our first weekend for Fairs for this year! They took one look and realized that the girls were meant to be a part of their family! Many happy years together!
GRACIE
In April '07, CIW had a call from Amanda, the manager at Kibbles and Gifts in Half Moon Bay, to ask for our help. A young female cat had wandered into a conference room at a coast side hotel. She had greeted all the guests and then made herself at home but she couldn't stay there and her rescuer didn't want to put her back outside. We found that Gracie liked people especially men, but was very unhappy around other cats. So it was better for Gracie not to be at the Adoption Fairs. That makes it very difficult to find her "forever" family. Miracle of miracles, Gracie and her new Dad met! Princess Gracie had found the person who recognized what a wonderful little girl she is! Ain't it wonderful?!?
MISTY
I've found a kitten running in the middle of our street but no one has claimed her. Can you help? It's a familiar phone call. This time we were able to help and that's how Misty came to CIW. Further searches did not bring forth a family who had lost this kitten but not to despair! Along came a wonderful young couple who were looking for an active youngster to join their family and they met Misty! They thought that she was the perfect choice for them. Lucky family!
MANNY & RAVEN
Four very young kittens were found in a garage. They were too young to be away from Mom. In time they grew into wonderfully socially sweet kittens. Minute Man (Manny) the runt, grew strong and handsome with a few white hairs on his black chest. Raven, his sister, became the talker and cuddler. Along came a couple who just love kitties and have a special fondness for black kitties. They met Manny and then Raven and immediately knew that these sweeties were meant to be a part of their family. Now they are! How perfect is that!
SUZIE & ROSIE
In July, a family of 4 little female kittens and their Mom were discovered living in a parking lot of a very busy business, feet away from El Camino in Redwood City. All 4 kittens, Mom and now Dad have been trapped, spayed and neutered. The kittens have been re- socialized and the older cats are works in progress. One day a young couple called to say, "We would like to adopt 2 kittens." They chose to invite Suzie and Rosie to join their family (lucky girls). Instead of fighting for their existence in a parking lot, these girls have a warm, loving, safe home with a Mom and Dad who love them. Don't you wish that all animals could have what these girls have?
NINA
This year, CIW and the Palo Alto Animal Services began a new program. CIW takes dogs to our Adoption Fairs to see if we can find their "forever" families. We get to evaluate the dogs in a home environment and give insight into their behavior and temperament that is unable to learn in a shelter environment. One of those little dogs was Nina. Nina had been in the shelter for several months and had been to several CIW Adoption Fairs when a great family came to see Nina and fell under her charm. A match was made! The little dog who had been a stray, had found the family and the canine big sister who were meant for her. How wonderful is that!
WHISPER
Whisper was one of 4 kittens Jo fostered 8 years ago long before CIW was born. Whisper (then Peanut as she was the smallest) was a wonderful, shy kitten. Her favorite things were to be brushed and combed and get lovin’. A fine family adopted Whisper but they had a very lively son who scared Whisper. Then they invited an equally rambunctious little dog to join the family and Whisper was more scared. Instead of being a part of the family, Whisper lived in the garage. Not the life for a shy cat! When the family came home from a vacation with 2 more puppies, they decided that maybe Whisper deserved more than they could give her. That's when CIW came into Whisper's story. Jo brought Whisper back to her first home knowing in her heart of hearts that she wanted Whisper to be a member of her family but first Whisper had to win her husband's heart. She did! Here is where she is staying! Jo and Bruce love her shy gentle personality. She is getting to know the other cats and to learn that not all dogs chase her. We're so happy she's here! Welcome home Whisper!
LOLA
Lola was found alone in a box in the middle of Skyline Blvd. She was lucky. Her rescuer looked after her for a little but needed help finding Lola's forever family. So she came to CIW. Then Lola went to stay with another family while her foster Mom was away. Who knew that Lola had met her "forever" family! Now Lola has a big kitty brother and sister to play with, a Mom, Dad and 2 girls who love her, to look after her. Lola's miracle rescue is complete! Wow!
PHOEBE & ISABELLA
Phoebe (right) and Isabella (left) were two of a litter of four kittens found and rescued from a surfer's shed in El Granada. They left their Mom when they were about 3 weeks old. Mom disappeared too. The kittens grew into healthy, happy kittens and in time they needed to find their "forever" homes. Two of the kittens were placed then CIW was called to help. Along came two families. Each family had older resident cats but wanted to have a wonderful kitten join their family. Phoebe's family have 3 children for her to play with while Isabella's family have a wonderful kitty for her to get to know. How lucky are the families who recognized what wonderful kittens these sisters are! How lucky are the sisters!
SMOKEY
CIW receives many phone calls from folks who are needing help rehoming a family companion animal. We received such a call about Smokey. Smokey's caretaker had passed away. Although all the family loved Smokey, they all had companion animals of their own and Smokey wanted to be a solo animal. Along came and angel who had recently lost her 18 year old solo companion kitty. She didn't know if she was ready to adopt but she thought she would like to foster. It didn't take long for her to discover that Smokey filled that empty place in her heart and in her home. Many happy years together!
DOTTIE
In Feb.'08, CIW was contacted because a little dog was rescued after almost being hit by a car on a very busy street in Redwood City. No flyers or inquires came asking about her. Because of all her spots her foster family named her Dottie. Dottie decided that her foster family were meant just for her. In due time, they decided that Dottie was right. They invited her to be a permanent member of their family. Good things take time. This is a very good thing!
ANDY & NICKY
In Fall 2007 a call came to CIW, "There are kittens playing on my patio. Can you help?" And help we did! CIW was able to rescue the kittens. We tried to catch the Mom cat too but she disappeared after she saw the kittens were safe. Andy and Nicolette (Nicky) grew into wonderfully social, playful, interactive, and beautiful kittens (we're only a little prejudiced ; ^))but their "forever" family never appeared. Christmas and New Year passed and Andy and Nicky were still waiting. Oh where could their family be? Then along came their perfect human Mom and her son who fell in love with these wonderful babies. They invited Andy and Nicky to join their family. Lucky kittens! Lucky family! What a wonderful day for everyone!
NUTMEG
From time to time, we find that we have open cages at the Adoption Fairs. At the Pet Place in Menlo Park, owner Lynn Macy allows people who are needing to re-home their companion or rescued animals to post a flyer on the doors or window. CIW called a couple of the families whose flyers were posted and asked them if they would like to bring their animals down and show them at the Fair. Nutmeg's family responded and brought Nutmeg. Less than 15 minutes later, a couple came looking for a companion kitty for her Mother who lived with them. Mom's previous companion kitty had passed to Rainbow Bridge and Mom was lonely. There was an instant connection between the family and this lovable kitty who had been labeled "feral" but who was only very shy. Nutmeg went to her new home and after a little more than two weeks the family reports that Nutmeg sleeps with Mom most of the night and sits beside Mom to watch the TV that she (Nutmeg) seems to find fascinating. For this match the moon, stars, and planets were aligned helped along with a big dose of good luck! We're happy for you all!
CLEO & MARLEY
A little, very pregnant cat turned up on a young couple's doorstep last year. Four days later, Momma Sam cat gave birth to 5 kittens - four boys and one girl. With the help of her humans, Mommy Sam did a great job raising her kittens to become wonderful family companions. The young couple watched the kittens grow. they watched when Sam and three of the boys found their forever families and they found it was harder and harder to bring kittens Cleo (Cleopatra) and Marley to the Adoption Fairs. When the kittens were younger, the young couple had thought that Marley and/or Cleo were meant to be part of their family. Now it was decided that indeed the kittens would truly become family members! This adoption was in the stars months ago! May the force continue to be with you!
CHARLIE
What do you do when you're a very young dog out on your own, hungry and you don't know how to find your way home? You rely on people and luck for help. It worked for Charlie! Charlie was rescued from the San Jose City Shelter after he was picked up as a stray and no one came looking for him. This handsome young man had luck on his side. CIW was contacted and Charlie went into a foster home. He won friends and admirers with his puppy charm. Along came lady who discovered she had a "crush on Charlie." Now he has a family who adore him, three children to play with him and a home that was meant for him. Continued luck to you all!
DOODLE
A cute little scruffy brown stray Was homeless in old San Jose. The shelters were scary. He was so wary. Now safe with his "buds" he can play! Doodle's days of fear and homelessness are past. Doodle's "forever family" were already a CIW adoptive family. They decided they would like to foster. Doodle was not the first companion animal that they fostered and not their last! Now Doodle can help other animals get back on their feet and become the wonderful companion animals we know they are! How excited we are for you all!
JAMIE
Late in 2007, CIW had a call for help with a very young kitten who was rescued from a garage roof. When Jamie's blood was tested, the results showed that he had, at least, been exposed to feline leukemia. Over the next few months Jamie's body fought off the leukemia virus and won! He's a healthy leukemia negative boy now! Jamie's foster family fell in love with this charming young kitten. They say he has brought peace to their home. Well done Jamie! Congratulations family!
BAY & APOLLO
A litter of handsome kittens were born in a barn in Half Moon Bay this past August. Their Mom did a wonderful job raising her four boys. Then St Francis took a hand. The kittens and their Mom were rescued. Mom was spayed and the boys were neutered. Mom was released back to the barn. The boys have been socialized and have found their "forever" families. Their rescuer kept one of the kittens and placed another brother. Then CIW was called for help. Handsome brothers Bay (now Maverick, left) and Apollo (now Luke, right) are with their new Moms. Now there are more happy families. A long and wonderful life to you all.
DASH
A young and very skinny dog was found wandering the streets. His ear tips had been chewed, were scabbed over and his ears were infected. He was nervous but he wanted to be friendly. He was scared to eat from his bowl or drink water in the house. With time Dash gained some of his self esteem and self confidence. He loves to run and play and chase balls. He loves people and needed to have his humans give him attention to gain his self reliance back. Along came a wonderful young couple who want to do just that. They saw Dash's picture and just knew he was meant to be with them. Ain't love grand!?!
STUART & NIN
A young Mother cat found a friendly home just days before she gave birth to one female and four male kittens. The home she chose was the perfect one. The family took her in, kept her safe, fed and helped her raise her kittens. Mom and one of her sons found their forever home together. Now it was Stuart and Nin's turn. Along came a lovely couple and their little boy. They were so looking forward to inviting two kittens to join their family. The family met Stuart and Nin and the new family members were found. The kittens have a little boy and a dog to play with and two adults to care for them. What could be more purrrfect?
HENRY
Henry was rescued from a very poor shelter in the Central Valley. He was very traumatized and scared. He had been neglected and his self esteem was gone. With time and patience, Henry started to recover his self confidence. He needed his family. Along came a family who just knew that Henry was the dog who was meant to be a member of their family. They worked very hard to make their home the safe and happy home Henry needed. How wonderful for all involved!
COOKIE
Cookie and her sisters came to CIW at the beginning of 2007. In due course all three puppies were adopted by wonderful families. That should have been the "happily ever after " ending but for Cookie that was not to be. One of the family had an allergy to dogs that was not known. Cookie needed to fine a new home. Cookie loves other dogs. Along came a great couple who were looking for a companion dog for their young dog and for them. The two puppies loved to play together. Their energy level matched and Cookie's personality matched the family's wishes for the perfect family companion. The Matchmaker made a perfect match!
DIVA
What happens to a young cat who is abandoned? Usually nothing good! Then in some cases, angels step in and make magic. There were several angels that looked after Diva. One angel recognized that Diva didn't belong outside and rescued her. That angel called CIW and asked for help. A second angel volunteered to be Diva's foster family. In the course of time, the family fell in love with this beautiful little girl and asked her to join their family. The feline family members are still getting used to one another but with the human's patience, that is happening. Angels do wonderful work!
MURPHY
About 7 months ago an appeal went out for a family to adopt a puppy that had been rescued from some boys who were tormenting it. A family came forward. The puppy grew into a wonderful young dog with boundless energy. The family have 2 young boys, one about the same age as Murphy. The family gave Murphy as much attention as they could but they felt it was not enough. They felt there was another family who could give Murphy the amount of attention he needed and deserved. They asked CIW for help. Another young couple with an energetic dog, saw Murphy's picture. When the two dogs met, they played as if they had known each other for years. The new family knew they had found the missing member of their family. Fantastic!
ABBY & KEE KEE
Originally shy Abby was found starving in a trucking yard. It was obvious she had been abandoned because she didn't know how to hunt. She was rescued and then was adopted by a couple who had other cats. The resident males started intimidating her so she would hide under a bed so Abby came back to CIW. A young man adopted her but there was not the connection so again she came back. Abby made the choice of her next human but she hadn't banked on the resident female cats. They didn't like Abby and made her life miserable. So again Abby came back. Abby found she loved kittens and they loved her. She was scared but willing to try again. Kee Kee was found meowing her head off on a neighborhood porch. A search revealed that no one knew where this very friendly kitten belonged. She was obviously not a feral kitten. Kee Kee needed a "forever" home. She and Abby developed a special friendship. A lovely lady saw Kee Kee at an Adoption Fair and couldn't get this special kitten out of her mind. She came to the foster home to see Kee Kee and met Abby and the rest , as they say, is history. Now both girls have a home that is just right for them with humans that love them and a big dog to get to know. A long and happy life to you all!
SAMANTHA & LUCIUS
A 10 month old little female cat turned up at a neighborhood home four days before she gave birth to five beautiful kittens - four boys and one girl. The family could take care of the Mom and babies but needed help finding wonderful homes for them. CIW could help. Meanwhile another young couple had trapped four kittens and their Mom. With their lifestyle, this couple knew the kittens were not right for them. CIW is helping those kittens too and the Mom is being cared for as well. This couple met Sam and her babies and fell in love with the petite Mom and her son Lucius. They realized that Mom and son would be just right for them - and so they are. How wonderful to see this happy new family!
MISTI
Four young kittens were born to a feral Mom cat who was living and scrounging for food in an apartment complex. But these kittens (and their mom) were lucky because a young couple wanted to help the kittens and their Mom. The kittens were trapped but the couple needed help and guidance. They contacted CIW and we were able to help. The couple also trapped the mom cat and she is spayed and being cared for and is safe. In the mean time, a family came to one of the Adoption Fairs. They saw Misti and knew that she was the right kitten to join their family. Now Misti has four children,a Mom and Dad, a kitten brother and two puppies to play and cuddle with. She's one very lucky little girl.
RAINBOW & DAVY
A young family cat escaped one day. She hadn't been spayed and in due course she had 4 beautiful kittens. The family found homes for 3 of the kittens but needed help finding a home for the fourth kitten. Not far away, a young couple noticed a young semi feral mom cat with her four wonderful kittens at their apartment complex. With guidance, they were able to trap the kittens and later the kittens Mom. All are now spayed/neutered. Along came a couple who were looking for a special kitten to join their family. They met Davy and Mom fell in love. Then they met Rainbow and Dad fell in love. How perfect! One kitten for each to love and two kittens for their resident kitty to get to know and to love. How perfect is that!
PEPE
The girl kitties were not the only cats that CIW assisted in rehoming. At the Pet Place, families are allowed to post flyers for lost or found animals or animals seeking a new home. So when CIW had spaces at some of the Fairs earlier this Spring, we decided to invite one or two of the cats seeking a new home to come and let people meet them face to face. That's how we met Pepé. Pepé had come from Spain as a kitten with his first family but they didn't want to put him through that ordeal again. So they were looking for a "forever" home here. If no home were found, they would take Pepé on the long flight to Britain. Then the word came - "they could find no housing that would accept pets!" Oh no! The pressure was on. At the end of a Fair at the Pet Place, a lady came in looking for a cat that could be indoor/outdoor. We told her about Pepé. She saw his picture and called the home. Upon meeting Pepé she fell in love with the big grey handsome boy. Now the first family knows their boy is in good hands and Pepé has a new family who love him, two dogs to keep track of and another kitty to get to know. We do love happy endings!
MOO & MS. MACGILLICUTTY
Companions In Waiting has rescued abandoned animals, animals in danger of being euthanized, and injured animals but also we try, when we can, to help re-home animals whose caretakers can no longer care for them for various reasons. Often that reason is a move. So it was with the 2 young female cats Moo and Ms. Macgillicutty. Their first Mom was moving. She had contacted other rescue groups without success. Now the move was a week away. She called CIW but the outlook was not bright for finding the girls a home together. St. Francis was listening. Within an hour of learning the plight of the 2 young cats, CIW got a call from a family who were wanting to invite 2 young female indoor-only kitties into their family. After meeting the girls, the family decided they were just the right kitties for their family. CIW asks St. Francis to keep working his miracles for many long and happy years together for this wonderful family.
CHANTILLY & LUNA
Two young sister kittens were trapped at a produce store. They were very scared. Their rescuer felt the girls could be socialized but she had a problem. She needed a foster family as her home was being remodeled. CIW was able to help. The girls started trusting and in time started attending the Adoption Fairs. At one Fair a special couple who had recently lost one of their family feline companions. Their other cat was lonely and so the couple were looking for a female to join their family. They met Luna and saw Lacy's picture. They knew the girls were meant to be in their family. It is the picture prefect beginning of many happy years together. Three Cheers!
AMBER
Three female and two male puppies were born in early December 2006. The family needed help in placing the female puppies and asked CIW for assistance. We were able to help. Amber found her perfect "forever family". She has a big sister whose energy level matches hers and who loves to play tug -o- war and who can teach Amber to play with balls. She has adults to love her and give her all the walks, pats and cuddles she could ever hope to get and she has a home where she is safe and happy. How wonderful can a puppy's life be?
OREO & MAGIC
In late 2006, a little mom cat gave birth to 4 wonderful boys. The family decided there was a better family for them so all 5 came to CIW. The Mom and two of the boys found their "forever family". We thought the twins had also found their family but it was not to be. A few months later, along came a wonderful lady and her son who were looking for two siblings to cuddle and love. They met the twins and a match was made. Oreo and Magic found their "forever family" at last. It may have taken a little longer but boy was it worth the wait!
JEMMA
Five puppies are born to a little Mom dog and a large male dog. They are all healthy and are raised to be sweet-natured social puppies who are ready to join their "forever families" The boys are placed and now it's the girls turn. A family came to see the puppies and Jemma spoke to their hearts. She played with the older boy, sat with the Mom and Dad and wasn't afraid of the younger children who were very gentle with her. Now she will have 3 children to grow up with and two kitties to get to know and humans to take care of all the rest. How lucky can you get?
MILO
A young male corgi/lab mix dog finds himself in a shelter with not much chance of reaching his next birthday. But an angel has seen his picture and has brought him to CIW. He is a great boy who just wanted humans to love and a friend to play with. Meanwhile, a young couple have a little dachshund who wants a playmate. The three visit several adoption fairs and agencies and meet lots of potential playmates. Then they met Milo! The two dogs acted like long lost friends who had found each other again. Milo had found his "forever family" and a playmate at the same time. What a great way to start the year!
SPOT
For whatever reason, Spot's first family abandoned Spot near a beach in Half Moon Bay. They probably mistakenly thought that because he's a cat he can take care of himself. They're wrong! Most domestic cats aren't hunters. Luckily Spot found a friendly back yard. He was very skinny and very hungry. His rescuers had other cats who are all indoor kitties. They asked CIW for help. Meanwhile they fell in love with this honey of a boy. They're introducing him to the indoor home and their other feline family members. Spot has found his "forever family" and his family have accepted the cat who found them. Ain't love grand?
LING MING
Four years ago a very young kitten was in foster care at Hamilton House. A wonderful family saw him and invited him to become part of their family. They had another young male cat. The two boys never bonded and in fact over time, the animosity grew stronger until the family reluctantly decided that Ling Ming would be happier with another family. So he came to CIW. At one of the Adoption Fairs, a great family saw Ling Ming and fell under his spell. They were the special family Ling Ming had been waiting for. He has humans to cuddle with, a place to run and explore, a little dog to get to know and most of all, no other cat to deal with! Here's to many happy years together!
SUGAR
After 5 years, Sugar's life went into a tailspin because her human passed away. Although she was loved and provided for, everything was different. Sugar thought nothing would be right again. Then along came a lady with a lilting voice that was soothing and that touched Sugar's heart. Sugar felt her world stop spinning. What Sugar didn't know was that she was just what her special human had been wanting for a long time. After several years, Sugar's love brought a four- footed companion back into her special human's life. Now life is a song for both Sugar (now called Missee) and her new Mom!
BATMAN
A petite female family cat gives birth to four beautiful male kittens. The family decides all five would have a better life with other families. So the little Mom cat and her boys come to CIW. Batman was the solo type. He seemed to want to be on his own. He curled up by himself. He'd find his own corner. Along came a lady who asked,"Do you have a black kitten? I can only adopt one kitten. " The answer was "Yes!" She met Batman who curled up in her arms and did something he had never done before - he purred!
LENA & SNOOPY
Lena, aka Thumbelina, is just the sweetest little Mom cat whose biggest joys are to be cuddled by her human and to purr. She did a wonderful job raising her four boys. Now she was ready to find her forever place. Snoopy is the most adventurous, rambunctious, friendly and playful of Lena's boys. Given half a chance, Snoopy wants to explore what's on the other side of the door. A wonderful lady saw Lena at CIW's last Adoption Fair for 2006 and couldn't get her out of her mind. After she saw how Lena and Snoopy were together, she invited both Mom and son to become part of her family with her resident cat Claude who is looking for a playmate. What a happy conclusion to a year of wonderful matches!
KIMMIE & SUSI
Two little dogs were hiding out in a business park. They didn't know why they had been abandoned but they were looking out for each other. They needed to know they would stay together and give all the love they had to their humans. Along came a wonderful couple whose senior pets had passed to Rainbow Bridge and who were missing the sound of 4 feet on the floor in their home. They fell under the Kimmie and Susi charm. Kimmie raced around her new yard with such joy. She knew she was in her forever home. Susi checked out every corner and kept coming back as it to say, "This is great!" Happy, happy lives girls - You deserve it!
DITTO, FRANK & SILVER
Four wonderful kittens were left in a safe backyard when they were 5 weeks old. One sister found her "forever home" almost immediately but her sister's and brother's "forever family" didn't appear. They grew into sleet, beautiful, sweet and loving adult cats. A year and a half later along came a lady who fell in love with the three beautiful black cats. After meeting them, their new Mom couldn't stop thinking about them. What a great start for the new family! Many happy years together!
NAHDI
Nadhi has had angels looking after her. Her first angel rescued her from Mexico and brought her to the US but found that a puppy was more than she could handle. In came Nadhi's second angel who promised she would find Nadi a good home. This angel found CIW. Nadhi's "forever angels" appeared at a park with their little dog. The puppies became friends. The family had been looking for a companion puppy. Now this Dalmation/Border Collie little girl is home! Angels make wonderful magic, don't they?
DINI & MONKEY
To hide out in a car engine is a rough way to find a safe new home! Grease Monkey and Ms Houdini came to CIW this way. Monkey was the outgoing sister while Dini is the shyer sister but they are both growing into wonderfully social cats. Along came a family who were looking for two "dog friendly" kittens and met these wonderful sisters. The rest is, as they say, history. The children each have a kitten to cuddle and love. The kittens have a friendly canine "big" sister and a safe and happy home so they can live long and happy lives. No more car engines for these two!
CASSIDY
A young semi feral mom raised 4 beautiful kittens. Luckily for them, they were all trapped, the kittens were socialized and Mom is a work in progress. All the kittens have now found their "forever" families. Cassidy was the protective big brother but as they grew, he learned that his sister didn't need his protection anymore and he could be his own personality. Cassidy found wonderful humans and a big brother to play with. He is never going to have to be afraid of cars, or other animals that might hurt him. He's a lucky boy! Cassidy, have a long and happy life with your special family!
RAYA & CONNIE
Raya and Connie are some of the lucky kittens. They were born in a barn to a feral Mom. A family scooped them up when they were very young and raised them to be wonderfully social kittens but needed help finding them a good home. CIW was able to help. The kittens have a great indoor home, two boys and a dog to love them and play with them as well as adults to make sure they are healthy, safe and take care of all their other needs. Who could ask for anything more?
MAGGIE MAE
Beagles follow their noses. Maggie followed her nose to a home that recognized that she was probably lost and should not be out on her own. Peninsula Humane Society checked Maggie over, spayed, vaccinated and micro-chipped her and waited for her family to come for her. But they never did. Maggie went back to the family who rescued her and Maggie thought she had found her forever family but very soon Maggie's energy told the family that she needed more than they could give her. CIW could help. Maggie now has a big beagle brother to play with, a big yard to run in and a Mom and Dad who understand beagles. Thumbs up and full steam ahead for a long and happy life together!
HENRY
What do you do when you're a young, scared kitten? You find someone nice and that's what Henry did. The lady who helped him couldn't keep him but she called CIW. We could help find that special family who was waiting for Henry and we did. Henry has his Mom and his home. He is still shy of loud noises and bustle but he loves to curl up in his Mom's lap and snuggle up with her at night. He is small in size but his purrs are even bigger than before. Have a long and happy life Henry!
BUDDY
A young kitten and his siblings are rescued from a life scrounging for food, trying to survive to adulthood and then staying alive against cars, dogs, cats, raccoons and the weather. Things look great for the beautiful kittens and they all find loving homes. But Buddy needs more. He wants all the attention and bullies the resident older cat until she is hiding. Much as his human loves him, this is not the "forever" home for Buddy, so he comes back to CIW. A year passes and Buddy is still looking for the special family who was meant just for him. Along came a young couple who are looking for one cat to cuddle with and who wants to spend time with his humans. A match was made! Buddy has found his family and they recognized what a wonderfully special cat he is! Three cheers for a long life together!
SHASTA
In 2003, a 3 month old kitten was adopted from Peninsula Human Society. A few months later the same kitten was surrendered to Palo Alto Animal Services. Shasta liked other cats, dogs and sort of wanted to be with people. But Shasta had an issue - he would bite - hard! He came to CIW to see if we could help him and some progress was made. A young man decided that Shasta was the companion for him, even with his issue but earlier this August CIW learned Shasta needed to be returned because his caretaker's business travel had increased and he could no longer care for Shasta. What would happen to Shasta? His future looked very grim when an animal savvy lady who had known Shasta earlier, said that she would like to give him a chance at her home. Shasta (now called Stitch) has finally found his "forever" home. He follows his new Mom around the house. He keeps an eye on her daughter and her friends. He is given attention only when he asks and he shows his new Mom in all the ways he can, what a happy boy he is. Way to go Stitch!
BASIL
Basil was rescued from a dumpster as a very tiny kitten. He grew up in a home with two older cats who were upset by this young energetic kitten who wanted to play with them. They weren't interested and soon friction grew and it was decided that Basil would be better in another home. Basil decided his foster home was where he wanted to live the rest of his life. He waited patiently until his foster family decided that they wanted to invite Basil, now Nick, to be a permanent member of the family. Now everyone's happy. Basil/Nick has his "forever family" and his Mom and Dad have a great new boy in their family, officially! Wonderful!!
DAISY
Daisy, (now PJ) A young semi feral cat raised 4 beautiful kittens. Lucky for them, they were all trapped, the kittens socialized and the Mom is a work in progress. The kittens have been finding their "forever" families. Daisy chose her foster Mom as her special person. Luckily her foster Mom and the family felt the same about Daisy. Now dainty Daisy has the other family cats to help her grow into as wonderful a cat as she is a kitten and humans to give her love and all the care she will ever need. Great combination, right?
LILLIAN & DOROTHY
Lillian (Lily) and Dorothy (Rosy) A young female cat was rescued from a feral colony. She decided she liked the family. What the family didn't know was that she wasn't spayed. In due time along came 3 kittens. One didn't survive but the the two pretty girls did and grew into very sweet and loving kittens with the help of the Mom's family. But they needed to find their "forever" family. Along came two young girls and their Mom. They fell in love with the sister kittens. Each sister found a sister. We wish them many wonderful years together!
HAILEY
It really was a dark and stormy night (actually it was hailing) when a frightened young kitten found refuge in a garage. It was dry and warm and she was in a safe place. Efforts to find her family were unsuccessful and she she had no collar, tags or microchip. She was named Hailey. She got along well with the resident cats but the house was full. Her foster family's daughter was looking for a new kitten to join the family and a match was made! Now Hailey has a safe "forever home with two big brothers, a little boy and two adults to love and care for her. No more dark, wet scary nights for Hailey!
ZAMBEDI, UMO & SUKI
Three young cats were born into a family with lots of pets. They were loved dearly but when the three were one year old the family decided to move to the East coast. The family had more pets than they could take with them. Zambedi, Umo and Suki had to stay behind. Each cat was tried in separate homes by themselves but they were miserable and all came back. They needed a home together. They waited and waited for over a year. One day a lady called to say that she and her Mother had recently lost their long time companion cat. The two ladies came to meet the three wonderful kitties and a match was begun. The two ladies say that it feels like their three new family members have been with them their whole lives. Shy Umo has found the confidence she was missing and has become the "social butterfly". Zambedi has taken Mom as her special person and gentle Suki has taken on the role as overseer in his own special way. They all love an ice cube bath. Their new Moms call them a "class act" and so they are! The three siblings have found their perfect home and the family has found their perfect companions! Many happy years together!
PIPER & GWENDOLYN
Four beautiful kittens were born under a deck to a young feral Mother cat. The mother cat raised them to be sweet kittens, healthy and ready to give lots of love. All the kittens and the Mom cat were rescued from a feral life and the kittens were easily socialized. Piper (now Ginger) and Gwen (now Nutmeg) have found their "forever family" with a Mom and Dad to care for them, two boys to play with them and teach them how to be good kittens/cats and a big friendly dog to be their big brother. What lucky kittens! What a lucky family!
ALEXANDER
Alexander found himself an abandoned puppy at 3 months old. He was picked up and put in a cold shelter with lots of noise and many other animals. Lucky for him, CIW came looking for dogs they could help and little Alexander with his huge winning personality was one. Very soon, along came a wonderful family who were looking for a companion puppy. Alexander won their hearts. Now he has laps that were just waiting for him and another dog to play with who will teach him his puppy good manners. Well done Alexander!
LEWIS & EMERY
Lewis' first year of life is lost to us forever. He was picked up as a stray in Madera and taken to the animal shelter there but he was shy and scared. He wouldn't cross a threshold and had to be carried. He had not been adopted and his time was up when CIW came looking for a few dogs we could help. Lewis was one. In his foster home his sweet personality started to emerge. He played fetch by himself and was a great cuddler. At the shelter, Louis met his buddy Emery. Emery was so shy he had to be trapped to bring him to the shelter. He didn't walk. He scooted along the floor on his belly. So finding a home for this shy dog wasn't going to happen through the shelter. CIW gave him a second chance. In his foster home, his gentle personality started to emerge. His favorite things were to find a buddy to play with and to cuddle with his human. Louis give Emery confidence to do things that are scary for him by himself. Then along came a gal who had lost her long time companion dog. Both boys charmed her and everyone' wishes came true! The boys have each other to play with and a wonderful Mom with whom to cuddle. Ain't life grand!!
BUZZ
What's a puppy to do when nobody wants him and he is only 3 1/2 months old? He had no "forever family" to take care of him. He was taken to a shelter in central California where CIW found him and decided to give him a real second chance. He is a border collie mix and so mellow and easy going but also a play machine who needs a job. Along came a young couple who were looking for a playmate for their border collie mix young dog. They saw Buzz and a match was made. Because of their previous experience with border collies, they know his energy level and his need for a job to keep him happy and productive. What a perfect home for this wonderful boy!
MARA
A little old cat with a large roughly shaved patch on her back, appears in a garden. It turns out she has a microchip but that family aren't interested in her anymore. She comes to CIW. Soon the fur on her back grows back and she is beautiful again. She has arthritis and very few teeth. Mara only wants a nice sunny spot to laze away the days, a comfy bed and her food (she prefers crunchy dry food, thank you). Mara's foster family decided to give Mara what she most wanted. Now Mara has a wonderful sunny window in which to sleep. She has her own space where the family cats don't bother her, she gets her food and water and all the love she can handle for her golden years. What a lucky girl she is! What a wonderful family!
WIGGLES
How do you find a wonderful home for a great little cat who hates all other four-footed animals? You keep trying. Wiggles, now called Sasha, was found terrified on a busy street. She had started out in life as an indoor kitten whose family discovered they had allergies to cats. Her second family had dogs that scared her so she was put outside with dry food and had to fend for herself. We suspect that cats outdoors were not very nice to her. When she came to the Adoption Fairs, she was so stressed that she spent her time growling, spitting and hissing. Not a great way to find a family! Wiggles needed an angel who could see what a wonderful little girl she is. Almost 3 years later, a phone call brought a lady who had lost her feline companion several months earlier. After grieving, she began looking for another companion. Something in Wiggles' story and picture spoke to her. Wiggles listened to what was whispered in her ear and she found her forever family. Now she gets brushes and pets and lots of play time. She sleeps with her new Mom, has a home that is all hers and a family who have recognized what a wonderful little girl she is. Aren't "happily ever after" endings great?
CRYSTAL
Crystal was in a stable home for the first 6 years of her life until tragedy struck. Her guardian took ill and felt she could no longer care for Crystal. Crystal was adopted by a wonderful lady who found that her job demanded that she be away from Crystal longer each day than she expected. She wanted better for Crystal than she was able to give her. Now Crystal has found her forever home with a Mom who discovered Crystal's winning personality when Crystal snuggled under her new Mom's chin. Now Crystal gets all the loving she deserves in a home that was just waiting for this little love bug! The third time was Crystal's Charm!
STELLA
Stella's life was centered around her humans and her canine best bud for seven years. Life happens and along came a baby. Stella wan't sure about this little one who made her very nervous. Stella's family wanted them and her to be at ease. They decided to try to find a home where little ones would not be a concern for Stella. CIW gave them things to consider when looking for that "right" family and they found the family they were wanting for Stella on their own. We are happy for Stella's first family, her new family and most of all, for Stella!
CHARLOTTE
A little cat not yet one year old, abandoned, is rescued. She already had a litter of 6 kittens in a roof gutter. All her cute kittens found homes but no one was interested in giving little Charlotte, who was still a kitten herself, a home. She came to a CIW Adoption Fair and along came two boys and their Mom. The boys recognized what a wonderful little girl she is and after a family meeting, the whole family agreed they would like Charlotte to become a member of their family. Now she has three boys and two other kitties to play with and a Mom and Dad who recognized what a special little girl she is. Way to go Charlotte!
HARRY
Harry's family left him behind when they moved. He survived by slipping into garages to steal food or to find a warm place to sleep. His beautiful fur got matted and he got sick. A caring neighbour noticed that he did not look well and took him to the hospital. He regained his health but he had no home to go to. So Harry came to CIW to wait for his forever family. Several months passed and then along came a lady. She had waited a while before she was ready to invite a new cat to be part of her family. The description of the cat she was looking for matched Harry to a "T" and so they met. The rest is, as they say, history! Harry has found his forever family and she has found her purrfect companion. Yippee!
CHICO & TINO
Three brothers are rescued from a backyard. One of the brothers is very outgoing and people friendly and is soon in his forever home. Two of the boys, Tino & Chico, are very shy and need more time to learn to trust people. The Adoption Fairs are very scary for Tino but Chico seems to like them. Their new "forever" Mom sees them many times at the fairs because she is helping. She and her husband decide that the boys need to join their family. Now Tino & Chico have an indoor safe home that is just right for two shy brothers. They have other feline friends to play with and humans they have come to trust to give them pets and cuddles. You are lucky boys!
MISS MUFFET & PUNKIN
Little Miss Muffet was one of three kittens rescued when they were less than 3 weeks old. She came to CIW and grew into a beautiful kitten who loved to cuddle and purr. Punkin was one of seven kittens born to a semi-feral Mom. He and all his siblings were taken from the Mom when they were very young. All his siblings found their forever homes and now it's Punkin's turn. Like Muffet, Punkin was hand raised (bottle fed) and learned that humans gave wonderful cuddles and pets and never let anything hurt the kittens. How wonderful that these two solo kittens found their "forever family" together. They have new names - Sophia & Eddie - and humans that think the kittens were born just for them. And so they were!
MEGHAN
About four years ago, up in Jackson CA, a young female lab mix dog was adopted by a Bay area family and came to live here. Meghan was a happy dog. Then she found that having people or another canine friend around was much more fun than being by herself. Meghan tried to tell her people that she was lonely and wanted company. They understood that they couldn't give Meghan what she needed so they asked CIW to help. Now Meghan has a family with people around an two other dogs her size to play with during the day. You're a lucky girl, Meghan!
MIRUKU & MAC
Miruku (whose name means "milk face" in Japanese) is one of the lucky kittens. She was born in a family home. She came to CIW with her mom Tavi, 2 sisters and 2 brothers. Her mom stayed with her until she was 10 weeks old. Nothing has hurt her or scared her. Three young male kittens were rescued from a back yard where their mom had been getting food. Macintosh (Mac) is the most outgoing of the the 3 boys and soon becomes a "cuddle bunny" kitten. The mom cat is spayed and is being cared for by the family. At one of the Adoption Fairs, Mac catches the attention of a young fellow who knows a wonderful kitten when he sees him. Now Mac and Miruku have found a wonderful indoor only home together with people to play and cuddle with them. Have long, happy, safe lifes, little ones!
SAPPHIRE
A very young kitten was discovered under a porch. No siblings or Mom cat were seen and the kitten at 3 weeks old was too young to be on her own. A foster family with other young kittens, was found. Sapphire grew out of her feisty - bitey phase into a sweet, social, lovable kitten. Now was the time to find her "forever family". Along came a young couple with a little black dog to be a friend to a little black kitten with the big "purr box". This snuggly kitten has found her snuggly 'forever" home!
SUNNY
An elderly man and his niece had a young dog that they loved but did not teach to be a good companion. She barked, stole food off the counter and wasn't house trained. Sunny had an angel who saw her potential. She was brought into a home where she learned her good manners and how to become a welcomed and loved member of a family. Then she found her forever family. Sunny is a "work in progress" She loves to chase squirrels and she's learning that the pet hospital is an "OK" place. She has found a family who is willing and anxious to help he learn. You're a lucky girl, Sunny!
SQUIRT
As the runt of the litter, Squirt - now called Chester - had a rough start. It was because of his meows that he and his brothers and sister were found and brought into his foster family's home. There is nothing diminutive about this little guy. His forever Mom and Dad recognized his giant personality and gentle trusting spirit. Now he pats the dog on the nose, has a kitty Mom to look after him and two humans who love him to "bits and pieces" Way to go Chester!
LILY
Lily is one of the lucky kittens. She was born in a family home. Her Mom stayed with her until Lily was 10 weeks old. Nothing has hurt or scared her. Now Lily has found a wonderful indoor only home with two other kitty friends to play with and a Mom who thinks she is perfect - which of course she is! Life couldn't get much better. Happy life Lily!
FELICITY
This kitten was the feistiest of the 4 litter mates. She was going to make sure nothing happened to her 3 brothers or herself. She learned that humans were really nice and she liked when she was petted and cuddled! She found a wonderful "forever family" where she has other kitty friends and a dog to play with as well as four humans to give as many kitty cuddles and pets as any kitten could ever dream of receiving! Lucky you!
DOT & BEAR
Bear is another of the kittens who came to CIW with his Mom Tavi, 3 sisters and 1 brother. Their family were moving and couldn't take the Mom and kittens. They had been born in a home and had never been outside so CIW needed to find a wonderful indoor family for these special kittens. A CIW supporter called and said "I have 4 kittens running around my back yard. Help please!" All 4 kittens were caught but Mom cat was never seen. Dot, her sister and 2 brothers came to CIW and learned to trust humans and to be the lovable kittens we knew they could be. Tavi was able to return to the family when her kittens didn't need her anymore and now Bear and Dot (who is now called Molly) have found a wonderful family with a big friendly dog to play with, a young girl who takes care of them and 2 humans to protect them from things that could hurt them. How lucky can they be!
MAXIMILLAN
A call came that a family had found a little dog scrounging for food at a farm near Hollister. No owner ever called to claim this little boy. The family who found him couldn't keep him. Could CIW help? Max wanted to be friendly but was scared of being touched or held in a confining way. Many months went by working with Max and gaining his trust that he was not going to be hurt. All the CIW Adoption Fair volunteers saw this little boy change and open up his trust to people coming to the Fairs. We all knew that he needed a very special family who wanted to continue working with this little "work in progress". A year and a half after Max came to CIW, his "forever family" found him from an old faded poster in a pet store window. Now, he loves listening to the piano. He has another little dog to play with. He gets long walks and car rides and he has humans that are just right for him! What a lucky boy you are!
TONUSHI
Tonushi (whose name means "Good" in Japanese) came to CIW with her Mom Tavi, 2 sisters and 2 brothers. Their family were moving and couldn't take the Mom and kittens. They had been born in a home and had never been outside so CIW needed to find a wonderful indoor family for these special kittens. Tavi was able to return to the family when her kittens didn't need her anymore and now Tonushi has her own "forever family" with another kitten to play with in an indoor garden, an older cat to teach them to be good kittens, two dogs, two teenagers and a Mom and Dad who thinks she is very special. And so she is!
SCOTTY
What does one do when a neighbour calls for help? A young semi feral female cat was being fed by an elderly neighbor and it was clear that she was "in a family way". With neighbor's help, the Mom cat was trapped and spayed but now to find her kittens. She brought them to where she was being fed and CIW was able to catch them and socialize them. Now it was time to find them wonderful homes. Scotty's new family had dreamed of having a little carmel colored kitten to join their family for a long time. And there was social little Scotty! He was a perfect match for the family. He has 2 little girls to love and spoil him, 2 big dogs to get to know, 3 older cats to teach him to be a good cat and two big humans to oversee that nothing harmful happens to him. Who could ask for a better life!
MAX
"Max is so little and our other dog is large and does not like the little guy. We're scared the big dog might hurt the little one. Can you help?" That is how Max came to CIW. He won the hearts of a young couple but there were complications. They were in the throws of selling their home and looking for another one. They were going to be living in hotel rooms and with friends while they were house hunting. Could they delay taking Max until they found a home? Max's family helped. Then word came that Max's "forever Family had found just the right home. It was a "Max friendly" home with lower steps for the little guy, a fenced yard and a family that couldn't wait to take Max to his new home. Many happy years to you all!
CHAI
Chai is a sweet, shy, 8 month old chocolate point Siamese mix kitten who was in a home with two cats where only one cat was allowed. The landlord found out and Chai had to go. The other kitten was dominating Chai and she had to watch over her shoulder to eat or when she wanted affection. She started acting out. She had been rescued as a small kitten and now she needed rescuing again. Chai's new Mom desperately wanted a friendly feline in her life but the adoption fees were always the stumbling block. CWI was able to help. Now Chai and her new Mom are both able to be happy together. Chai has a chance to bloom and be the little princess we know is inside!
NALA
Nala came to Companions In Waiting as a young dog so scared of being abandoned again, her foster mom couldn't collect mail without crating Nala so she would not panic. Now Nala has found her perfect "forever" family who understand her needs and invited her to be a part of their family. She has girls and a Mom who love to give her walks and throw a tennis ball with her. She has two cats to love and take care of and best of all Nala has a new play buddy who is younger than she is and who she teaching how to be a good dog. Quite a change for this young girl who was so emotionally needy. Way to go Nala!
BUDDY & GWENNY
have spent this past year moving from their original caretaker's home in Seattle to a home in Palo Alto, to a new caretaker's home to 2 foster homes and now to their forever home. This 4-5 year old brother and sister have handled each change in their gentle, sweet way. Gwenny, the love bug, just loves to curl up with her new Mom. Her Mom calls her "peanut butter" because she just oozes over your lap. Buddy really likes his new Dad and his new toys especially the ping pong and sparkly balls. He just loves the space he has to race around and play. They each have their own special person who thinks that they are the right addition to the family!
TOBIE
CIW volunteer Cheryl found one year old Tobie in her back yard. He was very hungry and seeking human attention. Over time Tobie's story emerged. He had been adopted as a 3 month old kitten from Peninsula Humane Society. In the next few months, his family discovered that one of the children showed cat allergies so the family's solution was to put Tobie outside. Not a good thing for a very young cat who had been raised as an indoor kitten. Tobie was taken into the foster care program with CIW and his warm, mellow, playful kitten personality emerged. Although he was a perfect gentleman at the Adoption Fairs, his "forever family" did not appear until one day in Feb. His Mom knew right away that Tobie was the special cat she'd been seeking to join her family. Tobie settled right in. Now he has a big brother Pebbles and a dog to play with and a Mom who understands what a wonderful boy she chose. Congratulations to you all!
PRECIOUS
The hardest decision to make is when a family realizes that a well loved four-footed member of the family would be happier with another family. That has happened with Precious and Klondike. Precious' family realized that she was being tormented by the other dogs in the family. She defended herself the only way she could and she wasn't happy. The family realized that Precious would be happier where she could be the star of the family and get all the love, affection and walks that she deserved. With the help of CIW and Dr. McKinney, Precious found her family on Christmas Eve. She is the best Christmas present the family could get and Precious gets to be the precious angel that she is!
KLONDIKE
Klondike had been with her family since she was 8 - 10 weeks old but in the following years along came another dog. In addition 3 little boys were born into the family. Klondike missed getting her walks and quiet time with the family. She told the family in the only way she knew how, that she needed more attention. The adults understood and with the help of Jennifer Celestre from Able Bodied Pets and CIW, Klondike's family came along. Klondike picked them out! Normally a little shy with people she doesn't know, Klondike came over and gave her new Dad the "kiss of approval" immediately. Way to go, Klondike!
SIR BOO & SIR GALANT
These two brothers have a new big brother called Ringo in their new family along with a young man who thinks that they are just "the cat's meow"! Ringo had been wanting someone to play with and now he has his own Christmas present. Mom says that the boys sure are kittens! Anything on any surface is a toy to be played with. May you all have many happy years together! How lucky can he be!
SIR HISS
This shy kitten has gone from Sir Hiss to Sir Purr according to his new family. He likes to sleep with his new little Mom who calls him Goofy most often.
SHASTA
Shasta came to CIW from the Palo Alto Humane Society. He is a little cat who needed to learn his good kitten manners and to find a family who enjoyed his energy and zest for life. He found just the right family and we are all delighted. Now he can be the only four-footed member of the family and hang out near his own humans. Way to go Shasta!
ABBY
Abby cat was starving when she was rescued from a trucking yard in South San Francisco. Abby was extremely shy. You could see her retiring into herself like a turtle going into it's shell. After being in several homes and foster homes, Abby spent almost a year in her last foster home before her new "forever Mom" found her. Abby opened her heart and her trust to her new Mom immediately. Now this 3-4 year old sweetheart can chirp and play with her new sisters and a Mom that is "just right" for her!
ROCKY
No one knows if Rocky got loose by himself or was abandoned. We do know that Rocky was rescued from under a barn. A barn is a great place for a cat except if they are declawed as Rocky is. He is a big, handsome, mellow, sweetie of a cat who just wants to be around people. Now Rocky has a family with 2 children who think he is just great (they're right). He loves to be brushed and petted. If he is left alone, he calls to them and goes to check in to see where his family is. Now Rocky has a wonderful home where a declawed cat can be safe and happy. How lucky can he be!
NICOLA
Nicole (and her sister Rosalee) were abandoned at a rescue facility in Northern California. They were beautifully sweet and gentle puppies who were not looking at having a very bright future. Now that has changed. Nicola's forever family has found her. She has her own back yard to play in. She has three children to grow up with and a great Mom and Dad who recognized what a wonderful addition she would be for their family! Way to go Nicola!
ROSALEE
Rosalee is Nicola's sister. She was also abandoned at the same facility in Northern California. So many dogs lived their lives there in wire runs and some sort of a dog house for shelter. Instead Rosalie came south and found a wonderful family who just adore this wonderfully gentle, friendly, outgoing puppy. Life is now truly rosy for this pup and her "forever" family.
PANSY & GRYPHON
Pansy and Gryphon were born under a house in San Jose. Their mother and grandmother had been born in the same area, but Pansy and Gryphon were lucky. These kittens were taken into the house and given a chance at a better life. Their new Mom was looking for two kittens who would live indoors. She had lost her long time companion cat to an altercation with a car. The car won and the kittens Mom didn't want that to happen to her new babies. Congratulations to you all!
CHRISTY
Christy was found in Northern California starving one Christmas Eve. She was taken to a rescue facility where she lived in a wire cage and slept in a metal drum for many months. As a result, she is terrified of loud noises, and thunderstorms and just shakes. But once around Christy, you see that she just wanted to be with people who would give her the pats she craves, even just one finger pats. Christy learned that playing frisbee was great fun and she has been known to climb 6 foot fences. Her new family did not see Christy's special needs as problems. They saw a wonderful dog who needed a family and they knew they were that family. Now Christy has a boy to play frisbee with and who thinks it is "cool" that she can climb fences. Christy has a canine sister who also had special needs. Most importantly, Christy has humans that recognize her as the wonderfully sweet and loving dog that she is.
BACKY
Backy was rescued from an auto repair yard on Hwy 92 just off Main Street in Half Moon Bay. The gal who was feeding some cats noticed that Backy seemed to be weaving - something was not right. Backy was suffering from a blood infection. Nursed back to health, Backy showed her sweet nature. All she wanted was to be with humans. Her "forever family" found Backy - now called Misty - loves to help read the paper and cuddle with her new family. How wonderful!
BUSTER
Buster was abandoned in Half Moon Bay and was existing with the help of a wonderful gal who would feed him and a few of his buddies. One time she came to feed the group and several of the cats, including Buster, were not there. A month later she found Buster more dead than alive, at the feeding place with his throat ripped open from under his chin to his chest. She took him in and nursed him back to health. Buster went to several Adoption Fairs which he hated and made his displeasure known very vocally. Marc met Buster and Buster won him over with his friendly playfulness. What a handsome "forever" family these two fellows are!
SNOWY
Snowy is the little white cat with her mom, Terry. Snowy is a(5 1/2 lbs) little 12 year old plus sweetheart who was left behind when her family moved away. She was so matted she could barely walk and needed dental work *very* badly. She had all but two of her teeth removed because they were broken or rotten. Terry met Snowy and fell under her spell. Now Snowy is safe in a family who love her as they do the other felines in the family. They deal with Snowy's thyroid and kidney problems that have come on because of age and neglect. Snowy has the kind of loving home she deserves. SNOWY and her dad DAVE (right) on a hard working weekend. Snowy passed away January 31st, 2005. She came to CIW in May 2003 and was adopted the next month. This wonderfully gentle little girl impressed everyone she met.