Michele’s Rescue in Grand Rapids, Michigan, sprung into action this week to save a recently adopted cat from being euthanized due to an alleged violation of the adoption contract.
The cat, named Anna, arrived at the rescue in March pregnant with five kittens. Staff ensured she was well-adjusted and placed her in a foster home to assess her personality and find her a suitable permanent home.
After thorough preparation, 2-year-old Anna began meeting potential adopters. An older woman, seeking companionship, seemed like a perfect match after meeting Anna and passing the adoption criteria set by Michele’s Rescue.
However, just weeks after adoption, Michele’s Rescue received a distressing call. The adopter had requested euthanasia for Anna at Family Friends Veterinary Hospital. Fortunately, staff at the hospital recognized Anna and alerted the rescue, revealing the adopter’s intentions.
This action not only saddened the rescue but also violated the adoption contract, which mandates that any issues with the cat should first be reported to Michele’s Rescue for proper handling.
Theresa Ockaskis from Michele’s Rescue expressed dismay at the adopter’s decision and emphasized that Anna could have been returned to the rescue instead. The rescue team promptly intervened, retrieving Anna before any irreversible actions were taken.
Anna is now available for adoption at PetSmart on 28th Street in Grand Rapids. Michele’s Rescue hopes to find her a loving home where she will be appreciated for her nature, despite typical cat behaviors like climbing.
For those interested in adopting Anna or learning more, information is available online through Michele’s Rescue, which remains dedicated to ensuring all their animals find safe and caring homes.
Ockaskis reflected on Anna’s ordeal, remarking, “They say cats have nine lives. She’s used up one of them for sure.”
