One year ago, Winter found her forever home.
Winter was adopted in March last year as part of our Glow Program.
At the time, she was undergoing treatment for ringworm, a fungal infection that occurs when an animal’s immune system is compromised by things like stress, malnutrition or other illness. It causes flaky skin and patchy hair loss.
Ringworm can take up to 6 weeks to resolve, sometimes longer. Six weeks in a shelter is tough going for a kitten.
Shelters are stressful places to live. We also know that when animals are less stressed, they heal faster.
That’s why we created the Glow Program. The Glow program moves kittens who are nearing the end of their ringworm treatment course into loving homes sooner, and we cover the costs of their ringworm treatment until they are fully recovered.
Now, ringworm is contagious to both other pets and humans. This means that a Glow kitten won’t be the right fit for everyone, particularly people who are immunocompromised and households with young children. However, the risks of infection are lower in adults who are not immunocompromised. While the word “contagious” can sound alarming, ringworm is very manageable. With the right support, the risk of spread is low, and the outcome is overwhelmingly positive for you and your Glow kitten!
Since launching in July 2024, 44 ringworm cats have found committed, compassionate adopters willing to see past a very temporary condition and focus on the loving companion they have found for life.
Winter’s new family embraced the journey wholeheartedly.
When Winter first went home, she weighed just 1.8 kg. Now, a year later, she’s a healthy 3.1 kg and absolutely thriving. Her physical transformation mirrors her emotional one, from a vulnerable shelter cat undergoing treatment to a confident, cherished family member.
Winter’s story is a powerful reminder that no cat is ever beyond hope. Sometimes, they just need someone willing to give them the time and care they need.
To everyone who played a role in her care, from our shelter team to her devoted adopters, thank you. Your compassion and commitment changed her world forever.
Happy one-year anniversary in your forever home, Winter. Here’s to many more years of love, health, and happiness ahead.
