Paws for Veterans: Honoring Veterans and Furry Friends
Antonio with Albus and Cooper.
Neighboring Joint Base Lewis McChord and Naval Base Kitsap, the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County’s community is comprised of a substantial number of active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their loved ones.
Among the key partnerships that have positively impacted the shelter and the animals we care for is our collaboration with Pets for Patriots. This nonprofit helps United States military veterans adopt pets by providing them with resources, guidance, and financial support, while giving shelter cats and dogs loving homes. Through this partnership, our shelter has been a part of countless heartwarming stories of veterans finding their perfect furry companions.
Victoria, Albus, and Antonio.
A Tale of Love and Companionship
One such heartwarming story is that of Antonio, a United States Marine, and his feline friend Albus. Antonio and his wife, Victoria, initially set their sights on adding a kitten to their family. However, when they arrived at the shelter, they quickly fell in love with a senior cat named Albus.
With many potential adopters fawning over kittens, 10-year-old Albus, caught Antonio’s eye. With a gentle nuzzle, Albus nestled not only into their arms but into their hearts. Albus was destined to be a part of their family.
Bringing home Albus wasn’t just adopting a cat, it was a second chance. Found in a feces-caked carrier inside a garbage bag in Federal Way, Albus had likely endured a prolonged period of confinement and a tragic past. Hearing Albus’s story only strengthened the special bond between them.
Antonio shares, “I have a special connection with Albus, and I am so grateful that Pets for Patriots could bring us together. He makes our family complete, and we can’t imagine life without him! Whether he’s relaxing in my lap playing video games, playing with his dog brother’s tail, or hanging out with me and my military buddies, Albus doesn’t leave my side. We are so lucky we matched with him at the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County!”
Cooper and Albus share a snuggle while they snooze.
A Community of Heroes
Antonio and Albus’ story is just one of the many heartwarming tales that are made possible by this partnership. It’s a reminder that, just like military personnel, shelter pets have incredible strength and resilience, and together, they create families built on love.
This Veterans Day, we honor not only those who have served our country, but also the unsung heroes with fur and whiskers who bring immeasurable joy to their lives. Through adoption, we can bring hope and companionship to the heroes among us.
