Ginger

Tonight we said goodbye to one of the sweetest cats. Ginger has been a cuddle bug since day 1!

Ginger came to us with 3 other “siblings” all the way from San Juan, Puerto Rico! These kitties were found on the streets and rescued by the local TNR group, Save A Gato. Unfortunately, all 4 cats tested positive for Feline Leukemia, and in Puerto Rico there just weren’t any good options for them.

All four kitties were soon on their way to Texas – what a journey – but all of them took it in their stride and as soon as they were out of their carriers they looked at us with that “This was no big deal look, what’s all the fuss about”. Loved them from the get-go, we did!

The Puerto Rico 4 as they were affectionately known loved everything about life. When they first arrived they spent their initial isolation period all together, playing all day long and when exhausted sleeping in a big pile on top of each other. We were so thrilled they were able to call Shadow Cats home! They were a joy! After hours on a plane, you would think they would all be cranky or at least a bit shy, but no, they knew they were home and knew they were safe. Ginger was never shy – a love bug from the start and a cuddler extraordinaire.

Our sweet boy has spent the last 2 years playing with his friends in Cookie’s place where he was well known by all the staff and volunteers for his signature move. Ginger would jump to the top of the scratcher and just wait for a passerby and gently reach out a paw. His way of saying “pick me up for cuddles, please!” He was most content to just be carried around in the crook of an arm, riding on a shoulder, or snuggled up under someone’s chin. This boy loved love! And we were all more than happy to comply.

Over the last few weeks, leukemia started to take its toll. Ginger was slowing down, and we could tell he wasn’t feeling his best. We did everything we could but he just was not getting better. He let us know he was tired and that it was his time. Ginger passed over the Rainbow Bridge today while being cradled in loving arms, just as he loved to be held. Our arms will feel so empty now without our sweet Puerto Rico boy. He lived life to the fullest, truly his best life.

Rest easy, dear Ginger, you will always hold a special place in our hearts. Reunited with your “siblings” Pepper and Mandarin, frolic and play… together again.

Our heartfelt thanks to all staff and volunteers who have looked after Ginger, and thank you to his sponsors and to all those who loved and supported him.

Ginger had 3 Sponsors

Suzanne Isaksen

Linda Larson

Deborah Anderson