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HAPPY TAILS
Do you have a Cape Ann Animal Aid adoption success story you'd like to share? If so, please submit it here. Adoption stories are posted to our Happy Tails webpage. We may also share your story and uploaded photos on our social media pages or in Cape Ann Animal Aid communications. (If we share your story, we will never publish your full name. Stories may be edited for clarity/content/length.)
CLICK ON A PHOTO BELOW TO EXPAND AND READ THE FULL STORY. THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR HAPPY TAILS WITH US!
Ruffy (FKA Rufus) Adopted March 2025
I told Ruffy the wonderful people at the shelter were wondering how he was doing after being with us for one year. Here is what he said:
Please tell the kind people at the shelter that I'm the bestest boy. And the silliest. I love playing bitey mouth with Rudy. I can fit his entire head in my mouth. I know, very impressive.
And I enjoy Fuzzy cleaning my ears. Sometimes he tickles my brain with his tongue.
Every morning at 5:30 I run outside into the back yard and bark into the void. It's the best way to start my day. Then we all go morning walkies together. I love morning walkies.
I also love nature walkies. But my daddy says there's too much snow for nature walkies right now. That's why I'm looking forward to spring. But I also love snow, even though it's confusing. Sometimes I can walk on top of it, and sometimes I can't. So weird.
I love peanut butter. I don't ever drool. Never. Except for peanut butter. I will drool for peanut butter.
When I get really excited, I go tornado. Nobody does that better than me. My mama says I'm the best tornado ever.
My favorite hobby is cuddling. And snuggling. Mama says my noggin is so big to give her more space to plant kisses. And I agree.
Sometimes my daddy makes a little fun of my jowls. But I think he's just jealous. My jowls are exquisite.
On the couch I always sit in my corner. If somebody already sits in my corner I will sit on top of them. Mama says I don't understand the concept of personal space. I have no idea what she is talking about.
I'm a happy boy.
And please tell the kind people at the shelter thank you for taking such good care of me while I was there. I miss them. Life is good. But there could always be more snackies. I love snackies!!
Please tell the kind people at the shelter that I'm the bestest boy. And the silliest. I love playing bitey mouth with Rudy. I can fit his entire head in my mouth. I know, very impressive.
And I enjoy Fuzzy cleaning my ears. Sometimes he tickles my brain with his tongue.
Every morning at 5:30 I run outside into the back yard and bark into the void. It's the best way to start my day. Then we all go morning walkies together. I love morning walkies.
I also love nature walkies. But my daddy says there's too much snow for nature walkies right now. That's why I'm looking forward to spring. But I also love snow, even though it's confusing. Sometimes I can walk on top of it, and sometimes I can't. So weird.
I love peanut butter. I don't ever drool. Never. Except for peanut butter. I will drool for peanut butter.
When I get really excited, I go tornado. Nobody does that better than me. My mama says I'm the best tornado ever.
My favorite hobby is cuddling. And snuggling. Mama says my noggin is so big to give her more space to plant kisses. And I agree.
Sometimes my daddy makes a little fun of my jowls. But I think he's just jealous. My jowls are exquisite.
On the couch I always sit in my corner. If somebody already sits in my corner I will sit on top of them. Mama says I don't understand the concept of personal space. I have no idea what she is talking about.
I'm a happy boy.
And please tell the kind people at the shelter thank you for taking such good care of me while I was there. I miss them. Life is good. But there could always be more snackies. I love snackies!!
Mitzy (FKA Alexa) Adopted March 2025
We were heartbroken when we had to put our 8 year old dog down due to cancer . After 3 months we decided we would rescue again. Little did we know that Mitzy was born on the day we put Cora down. I feel that Cora sent her to us. Mitzy came very scared and timid but has come so far. Her favorite thing to do is run free at the beach! She is so smart and listens so well. She is the perfect addition to our family.
Shadow, Adopted March 2025
We had a 4 month old kitten we had already adopted and were totally in love with her so we decided to adopt a playmate.
Lady (FKA Barbie) Adopted March 2025
I thought I was the one providing the kibble, the soft bed, and the vet visits. But Lady provided the grounding.
On the days when the world felt a little too loud or a little too heavy, she’d just lean her weight against my shin or nudge my hand with her wet nose. She didn't need a mansion or a fancy life; she just needed me. And in meeting that need, she taught me that I was enough.
She wasn't just an "addition" to my life—she was the missing piece of the puzzle I hadn't even realized was incomplete.
On the days when the world felt a little too loud or a little too heavy, she’d just lean her weight against my shin or nudge my hand with her wet nose. She didn't need a mansion or a fancy life; she just needed me. And in meeting that need, she taught me that I was enough.
She wasn't just an "addition" to my life—she was the missing piece of the puzzle I hadn't even realized was incomplete.
Daisy (FKA Dazzle) Adopted March 2025
Our house was so sad after the passing of our 12 year old adopted cat, that I went and adopted Dazzle aka Daisy. She has become the best friend of our 8 year old black lab. They go everywhere together, even take turns at the water bowl! We are so happy to have adopted Daisy from the Cape Ann Animal Aid.
Milo James, Adopted March 2025
Milo James continues to thrive in our home and is the perfect addition! He did have another surgery this summer to remove more of those pesky bladder stones and more were recently found but, after a consult with a specialist, adding some new medicine to his food we’re hopeful to avoid any future surgeries. Other than his surgery, Milo James is a happy boy who loves to curl up on our lap, find his way to a warm spot under the covers, hang out with his bother and keep us laughing with his silly personality.
Scout (FKA Bear) Adopted January 2025
Scout is a beautiful, funny and smart boy. He loves to cuddle and play; he is such a love! I can’t imagine my life without him. He is very social and loves everyone. He just had his first year check up and is super healthy!
Thank you for such a wonderful boy. His foster family and CAA did a great job as well as his mom Raven!
Thank you for such a wonderful boy. His foster family and CAA did a great job as well as his mom Raven!
Fig (FKA Chicken) Adopted September 2023
We met Chicken (now known as Fig) in early September 2023. Cape Ann Animal Aid rescued her not long after she gave birth to six kittens in the vicinity of a fast food chicken restaurant near Briggs Street in Gloucester (hence her name). Fig has a Zen-like shyness but has learned to trust us and is affectionate. She is an elegant silver mini-panther! Thank you, CAAA for rescuing her and her kittens. We feel blessed to have her in our lives.
Rosie and Lily, Adopted February 2025
A year ago this month, after the painful loss of my dog, I adopted Rosie and Lily, Maltese/ShihTzu mix 6-year-old littermates from the WONDERFUL Cape Ann Animal Aid! Every day with Lily and Rosie has been filled with laughter because they are such comedians, love because they are so affectionate, and happiness because their companionship has been a real rock for me through so much. Amazingly, I also gained a wonderful friend in Rosie and Lily’s former owner who made the greatest sacrifice in rehoming these two because of her medical challenges. Now I not only have two perfect pup companions but also a dear friend! She even sent them Christmas presents!!!! I’m so grateful to Cape Ann Animal Aid and to Rosie and Lily’s first mom who made this possible! Thank you!
Marley (FKA Emmy) Adopted January 2026
After the loss of our cat Governor, our house felt empty—too quiet. At first, I truly didn’t think I could ever open my heart to another animal. We were so devastated. But then I realized that adopting an animal in need and giving them a loving, safe home was the most meaningful way to honor Governor’s memory.
That’s when we went to Cape Ann Animal Aid and met Emmy—now lovingly called Marley. She is the perfect mix of sass and sweet that our hearts and home needed. She’s adjusting beautifully, and as the days go by, her true personality continues to shine. We are completely in love with her.
Adoption matters because it saves lives and gives animals a second chance at the love and security they deserve—and in return, they give you more love than you ever imagined possible. We are so grateful to Cape Ann Animal Aid for the incredible work they do and for bringing Marley into our lives.
And yes… we may or may not be stalking the page already, looking for her future fur brother. 🐾💙
That’s when we went to Cape Ann Animal Aid and met Emmy—now lovingly called Marley. She is the perfect mix of sass and sweet that our hearts and home needed. She’s adjusting beautifully, and as the days go by, her true personality continues to shine. We are completely in love with her.
Adoption matters because it saves lives and gives animals a second chance at the love and security they deserve—and in return, they give you more love than you ever imagined possible. We are so grateful to Cape Ann Animal Aid for the incredible work they do and for bringing Marley into our lives.
And yes… we may or may not be stalking the page already, looking for her future fur brother. 🐾💙
Jaxon (FKA Jaxson) Adopted January 2018
We’re celebrating our 8th year with Jaxson. They have been the best years of our lives. He has a BIG personality and is the most AMAZING dog we have ever owned. He is truly truly loved maybe even too much if that’s possible. Happy Anniversary to Jaxson!
Nyx/Nicks (FKA Vineyard) Adopted October 2025
My 7 year old daughter fell in love with Vineyard as soon as she saw her, and now she is enjoying being spoiled in her new forever home with her two big brothers!
Cody, Adopted in 2011
We had Cody for several years. Unfortunately he passed away Thanksgiving Eve. Our hearts are broken but what an amazing life he lived. Helga & Paisley are missing him too! We have been blessed with these little angels 🙏❤️
Jazz (FKA Mossy) Adopted November 2024
Jasperella "Jazz" formerly Mossy has been with me for a year. Maybe a bit of a diva Jazz loves to play and still has a toy or two she came home with. Milk caps and rings are her favorites. She loves to play fetch and also loves Churu treats.
Crash, Adopted November 2024
We adopted Crash at year ago he has been a big addition to our family since he arrived. Big boy and a playful boy.
Brenda, Adopted November 2025
I adopted Brenda at a time when I really needed comfort and companionship, and she has fit into my home so naturally. She adjusted quickly, loves cuddling, and follows me everywhere. She has the funniest personality and brings so much joy to me and my son every single day. I’m so grateful she chose us, she truly completed our little family. She’s the perfect mix of sassy and loving. We absolutely adore her.
Misty, Adopted October 2023
It's been 2 years since I adopted "hard to place" kitty Misty. She was very afraid at the shelter and would hiss and bat at anyone that got near her. She had to be placed in a separate room away from all the other animals while there. I've always had a soft spot for senior and hard to place animals so when I saw her story online, I immediately put in to adopt her.
It was touch and go in the first couple of months. She found a spot way up high where she felt safe. She slowly, but surely, got used to my presence. It also took some time to find what food she likes and how to prepare it in a way that she would eat it, but I finally did.
She has become the most loving lap cat ever! She loves getting all comfy on my legs as I watch TV or at my side when I am on my laptop. She sleeps next to me as the "little spoon" and stays there, curled up, all night. I've made my home very cat friendly and she has tables in front of the windows to watch the birds and squirrels. One has a heating pad on it for her to get nice and toasty now that the weather is getting colder. She is constantly purring!
She's still shy and scared with new people but is getting better and better every day. She's 7 years old now and is very healthy and happy.
Thank you CAAA for trusting me to give her a happy life. I adore her!! Annie
It was touch and go in the first couple of months. She found a spot way up high where she felt safe. She slowly, but surely, got used to my presence. It also took some time to find what food she likes and how to prepare it in a way that she would eat it, but I finally did.
She has become the most loving lap cat ever! She loves getting all comfy on my legs as I watch TV or at my side when I am on my laptop. She sleeps next to me as the "little spoon" and stays there, curled up, all night. I've made my home very cat friendly and she has tables in front of the windows to watch the birds and squirrels. One has a heating pad on it for her to get nice and toasty now that the weather is getting colder. She is constantly purring!
She's still shy and scared with new people but is getting better and better every day. She's 7 years old now and is very healthy and happy.
Thank you CAAA for trusting me to give her a happy life. I adore her!! Annie
Jiji (FKA Vega) Adopted February 2025
When we met Jiji, she was a little shy and very playful. The latter is still true, but she’s grown into a very cuddly and talkative cat! She loves to play with her toys, follow Father around the apartment, and be pet until she’s reached her limit (there is no limit). She gets along well with her older sister, Strife, and naps in the window. We’re so happy that she’s a part of her family!
Oscar (FKA Bounce) Adopted September 2025
Oscar is a joy!!! We came home with all his toys and settled in immediately. Loves to “bounce “ to all his toys (and will not stop looking for them if he loses them!). He is a cuddle bug!! So glad to have him with me.
Salma (Hayek) and Celine (Dion) (FKA Bessie & Skye) Adopted August 2025
I moved to Boston from the West coast and was missing cats in my home. My younger sister had offered to get me a cat as a house warming gift. When I saw Bessie's stance in her picture I knew I wanted to meet her. At the center I saw Skye and my sister said "you want both? Get both." Now they are my cuddle buddies at night. They will lead me to bed when they're sleepy.
Wendy, FKA Safiya, Adopted March 2022
"This tuxedo was completely unresponsive, in a cage, withdrawn. Not a good look for adoption. Another was a kitten that I adopted to bring home the next day. That evening I thought about the caged kitty and called the counselor the next morning. I asked if the kitten would be adopted quickly. "Yes." And what about Safiya? "She'll likely be a long timer." I gave up the little one and took a chance with the sad, reclusive year old. Now? Wendy, after months of hiding and getting loving patient care, is THE BEST little fur girl I ever had. Loving, fun, happy, low maintenance and sweet, she is a joy!"
Thimble, Adopted July 2025
"Dear Cape Ann Animal Aid, It's one week since we came home with Thimble, a 3-month-old kitten who has brought so very much joy to us. We've been hoping to adopt a cat for a very long time. And then there he was! Thank you for the great work you do and for making it possible for us to be so happy."
Solis, FKA Walcott, Adopted April 2023
"When our beloved fur baby passed away at 20 on Feb 03, 2023, my spouse and I were devastated. Harley was a big part of our hearts, and our families too. With that empty piece missing after some time grieving we started looking for a new fur baby to share love were missing to give. In late March, a friend of the family offered to us our sweet girl Luna. What a ball of love and fluffy black fur, stole our hearts with one look. Although we now had a new start I was still feeling that we needed one more. I looked at shelter after shelter, and then pet finder. I scrolled and found Solis’s brother with a sweet face and adorable eyebrow print on his face. One of 3 family from NC. I reached out and found all but Walcott were adopted. I applied immediately! As soon as I received a call I took the day off from work and flew to go get our boy! The two kitties hit it off! Solis (aka Walcott) and Luna completed our family. I like to think Harley would have loved the two as well."
Ruby, FKA Francesca, Adopted December 2024
"Just emailing to say thank you for Ruby! She has seamlessly joined our lives. She is incredibly curious, obsessed with shadows and feathers, kneads with the best of them, and is a good sport about being picked up and hugged multiple times a day. She also prefers sleeping with a leg up in the air, which delights us to no end. Thank you, thank you!"
Rook, FKA Wheaties, Adopted February 2025
"Our daughter attends college in Virginia and her friend rescued 2 kittens from a local shelter that was going to put them down due to overcrowding. He found a home for one and was going to keep the other, Bishop, a beautiful orange tabby. However, being a college student, it was too much, so our family adopted Bishop. We wanted Bishop to have a brother around the same age, same breed and that is when we found Wheaties at CAAA, a spunky brown tabby. Since we already had “Bishop”, the family decided to name him “Rook”. These 2 kittens (7 months old) are like two peas in a pod and we often find them snuggling together. Rook is a very energetic, loving cat and has adapted well to his new home and new brother. Thank you CAAA."
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