When Bud, a 14-year-old cat, first arrived at Putnam Humane Society, his world had suddenly changed. Over the summer, his beloved owner sadly lost his home and could no longer care for him. With nowhere else to go, Bud ended up at the shelter — confused, heartbroken, and clearly missing the person he had spent his life with. 🐱💔
At first, the transition was difficult. Everything around him was unfamiliar — the new smells, the sounds of other animals, and the busy shelter environment. But over time, Bud slowly began to settle in. The staff and volunteers made sure he received plenty of love and attention, helping him adjust to his new temporary home.
And as they got to know him better, they quickly realized what a special cat he is.
“Bud is easygoing and absolutely loves to be pet,” said Michele Dugan, board president and shelter director for Putnam Humane Society. “He enjoys attention and spending time with people, though he can be a little bossy around the other cats.”
Months have now passed since Bud arrived at the shelter, and while many other animals have come and gone with new families, Bud is still waiting for his forever home.
But this determined senior cat hasn’t given up.
A few weeks ago, staff noticed something unusual that made them smile. Bud had climbed into a basket near the front of the shelter that was filled with small giveaway items labeled “FREE.” 🧺
At first, it seemed like a funny coincidence. But then Bud did it again… and again. Now, it has become something of a routine. Bud regularly hops into the basket and sits there calmly, as if he’s trying to send a message to visitors walking by: “I’m free too — you can take me home.” “He really is trying hard to get adopted,” Dugan said.
Despite the sweet and slightly humorous effort, Bud is still waiting for the right person to notice him. Being a senior cat means he’s often overlooked by visitors who are drawn to younger animals or playful kittens. But Bud still has so much love left to give. According to the shelter, Bud would do well in almost any calm home environment. However, because of his age, he would thrive best in a household where he can be the center of attention — the one and only pet soaking up all the love and affection. Somewhere out there, Bud’s perfect family is waiting. And until they walk through the shelter doors and finally see him, Bud will keep doing what he’s been doing — curling up patiently in that little “FREE” basket, hoping that one day someone will stop, smile, and realize he’s exactly the companion they’ve been looking for. 💛