Have you ever wondered what happens to pets when their owner passes away? It’s not often something I thought about as it wasn’t something that happened to me (yet). Anyone I know who was successful either didn’t have pets or survived a partner who could continue to care for the animal.
But sadly, it is true for many. Some pet parents have time to prepare, but many others don’t have the time or resources, and pets can be left behind, put in shelters, confused about where their people are going and why their lives have suddenly changed.
Thankfully, many rescue organizations are helping with this. One such organization popped up in my Instagram feed the other day, and I was instantly hooked. Whether it was a name or a message, I’m not sure, but I wanted to share. My Grandfather’s Cat message and encourage you to not only follow their efforts but pay attention to those around you to see if you can help a pet parent and pet in need.
My Grandfather’s Cat
According to their website, in December 2019, Angela Rafuse’s grandfather died in the hospital while waiting to be admitted to the nursing home. One of the reasons he delayed the move was his commitment to caring for Mackenzie, his 14-year-old cat, who was left behind after his wife died.
Mackenzie had a reputation for being difficult, and no one in the family was eager to take him on. Faced with the choice of bringing him home or surrendering him to a shelter, the founder chose the former. Over time, Angela discovered that beneath Mackenzie’s friendly exterior was a loving, friendly friend.
While sharing their journey online, she heard from dozens of seniors with the same dilemma: what would happen to their pets when they moved to a retirement home or died? Without family or friends to take them in, many feared their beloved pets would end up in shelters—just as Mackenzie’s grandfather feared.
Seeing the need for a solution, Angela invented and launched My Grandfather’s Cat May 18, 2021—her grandfather’s birthday.
What started as a rehoming service has since grown into a national initiative (in Canada), providing pet placement assistance, pet shelter, and educational resources about the important role of animals in the lives of seniors.
My Grandpa’s Cat helps seniors and terminally ill people secure loving homes for their pets before transitioning into retirement care or death. Unlike traditional rescues, the organization facilitates direct pet adoptions—bypassing shelters and adoption programs—at no cost to adopters.
In addition to rehoming, this initiative supports pet owners through pet shelters and educational resources, recognizing the important role that companion animals play in later life.
To date, My Grandpa’s Cat has found second forever homes for 315 cats and dogs, fostered 475 pets through pet shelters and outreach events, and helped 496 terminally ill individuals and families through their work. The team continues to ensure that no beloved pet is left homeless.
How Can I Help?
First, you can follow them on Instagram for great updates. Exposure helps them grow! If you are based in Canada, you may want to join in person and volunteer with the organization. Or, if you feel the call, you can donate to help their efforts go forward.
Also, in your gatherings, it’s helpful to remember friends and family members who may need this type of planning and support to ensure peace of mind for them and their beloved pets.