A feline, who has spent the majority of her life within the confines of a shelter, continues her search for a forever home after an enduring 19-month wait.
Rescued from a hoarding situation in June 2022, Saltine, affectionately known as Salty, has weathered an astounding 588 days at the Tuscarawas County Humane Society in Ohio.
Upon her initial arrival, Salty bore the scars of neglect, grappling with severe flea infestation and significant hair loss. Thanks to the compassionate care provided by the staff at Tuscarawas County Humane Society, she has undergone a remarkable recovery.
Salty, a tender and playful cat, revels in the joy of human touch and affection, displaying a perpetual kitten-like enthusiasm for playful moments.
Weighing in at a petite 6 pounds, she is spayed, has all vaccinations up to date, and receives regular flea and tick preventatives. Despite these efforts, she has yet to find a home of her own.
In a recent Facebook post, Tuscarawas County Humane Society expressed, “Saltine is our longest resident in our building,” accompanied by a poignant image of the forlorn feline.
Each year, 6.3 million pets enter U.S. shelters, averaging 17,260 a day, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
Recent statistics from the 24Pet ‘Shelter Watch Report’ reveal that 46,807 dogs and cats entered shelters in January 2023, marking an increase of 1,744 compared to January 2022. Sadly, approximately 920,000 surrendered animals are euthanized annually. Shelters strive to reduce euthanasia rates through adoption campaigns, spaying and neutering programs, and behavior rehabilitation.
Despite Salty’s once patchy fur transforming into a luscious black coat, there has been no interest in her adoption. Black cats, according to data, often face prolonged adoption waits and a higher likelihood of euthanasia, attributed to enduring superstitions associating them with bad luck.
Heartfelt comments on a recent post about Saltine reflect the community’s sentiment. One commenter expressed, “This breaks my heart; she’s a beautiful lady,” while another noted, “Black cats have awesome personalities.”
Salty’s adoption fee is $85, and those interested in offering her a loving home are encouraged to contact the humane society.
