Story #52: The Cats Who Changed Everything
As told by Chris Propheter, Adopter and Donor
Growing up, I was never really a “cat person.”
Childhood experiences left me hesitant to trust them, and I never imagined a cat would hold a place in my heart. That all changed when our daughter Mollie was just a toddler. She rescued a tiny kitten from a creek, and from that moment on, our home was never without a rescue. That little act of compassion showed me the power of animals to teach love, patience, and connection.
We’ve always rescued when it comes to our fur babies, but nothing could have prepared us for the impact Bella and Nettie would have on our lives.
From the moment they came home, they changed everything.
Bella is what we lovingly call “our velcro kitty.” She is always nearby—on a lap, in a chair close to her people, quietly keeping watch and sharing her love. Nettie made her mark immediately as well, full of energy, curiosity, and her own unique personality.
Even though they are cats, I never really think of them as cats. They are our fur babies, our family, and our companions in ways that go far beyond words. Their presence has brought joy, comfort, and connection into our home almost instantly, and every day with them reminds us of the love that rescues can bring.
Nettie made her presence known from the very beginning.
During a visit for a different kitty during COVID, she crawled right up our daughter Amanda’s leg and claimed her. From that moment, it was clear she belonged there.
Bella has her own unique way of showing love. She became my guardian angel during a difficult time filled with surgeries and pain. She would sit on the couch beside me every night, quietly keeping watch, letting me cry, comforting me in a way only she could. She thinks she’s a dog—she begs for food, comes when called, and even growls when she’s protecting you.
Nettie, on the other hand, is pure energy and joy. She flies through the house like a bird, coos, and entertains us endlessly. It took her two and a half years to meow, but when she does, it’s her way of saying, “I’m here, and I love you.”
I thought we adopted these kitties for our daughter, who has special needs and shares a beautiful bond with each of our pets.
She considers them her comfort companions, leaning on them for emotional support, and they provide her with love and calm in ways that words cannot describe.
But the truth is, I am the one who has been completely smitten. Bella and Nettie have become our family’s anchors. Their presence brings comfort, joy, and love every single day. They remind us of the importance of patience, unconditional love, and quiet companionship. They are there for the highs, the lows, and the everyday moments that make life meaningful.
Anderson Humane has been an incredible part of our journey.
For 60 years, they’ve connected animals with the families who are just right for them. The love, care, and support they give to each animal ensure they find homes where they are valued, cherished, and deeply loved.
Bella and Nettie are more than pets. They are comfort animals, family, and teachers of love in their own ways.
Their presence has forever changed our lives, and we are endlessly grateful to Anderson Humane for making these connections possible.
Do you have a story about how Anderson Humane changed your life?
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Ready to start your own rescue story?
Meet adoptable animals at Anderson Humane by visiting ahconnects.org/adopt, or help make the next 60 stories possible by donating in honor of our 60th Anniversary.
