Joseph and his sweet cat, Bugs

September 23, 2024
Pets of the Homeless Australia
How Pets Of The Homeless helped keep a bond between an owner and their pet through hard times.

To know Joseph was to know how much he loved Bugs.

He and his friendly feline had been together for 16 years, and had settled into their senior years side by side. They meant everything to each other. But early last year, Joseph’s health failed and he was suddenly hospitalised. With no one to care for Bugs, she was taken in by an animal shelter while Joseph faced a long recovery. But after thee months his beloved cat was facing seizure, and knowing of her own extensive health issues including arthritis, Joseph couldn't bear to lose her. That’s when he reached out to Pets Of The Homeless. For the past 10 months while Joseph bravely battled ongoing health issues, I have been honoured to care for dear Bugs.

All the while, Joseph continued to love Bugs from afar when he couldn't be by her side. Their heartwarming reunions between hospital visits proved their special bond. But sadly, just after Christmas, we received news that Joseph had passed away. Holding little Bugs tight, I promised her that she would always be safe and loved with me by her side. his kind man and his cat taught me just how fragile life can be, and that the bond shared between a pet and their human is deeply profound, offering comfort and support during life's most trying moments.

We must do more to help best friends like Joseph and Bugs stay together through tough times.

Yvonne Hong


Founder & CEO
Pets Of The Homeless