THE ADOPTION JOURNEY of BLACK BEAUTY (now known as KEALA)
When Good Cat Network received a $100K grant through the J.R. Peterson Foundation for our Have A Nice Spay program – we knew that from a big picture standpoint, it would be life changing for our non-profit. We also had no idea what kind of beautiful little ripple effects could occur.
We’re about to take you on a journey that isn’t about big grants or programs – it’s one about small, serendipitous connections that matter big – especially to a tiny, six-pound, shiny black kitty momma to nine.
The journey starts at Maui Humane, where this sweet black cat was going to be surrendered with her nine newborn kittens in an overall group of 17 black cats. Ulli, local rescuer, was at the shelter at the time of her surrender, and within earshot of the discussion between the couple relinquishing the cats and Maui Humane representatives. Ulli knew the shelter’s growing capacity and the challenge of finding black cats homes, and chose to offer to take the momma cat and her kittens home to foster. She named her Black Beauty.
Luckily, all of the kittens thrived and were adopted out to loving homes through Maui Humane. Ulli started her search for Black Beauty’s new loving home. She wanted to find someone who would appreciate her journey thus far, and could offer love and companionship to a cat that has had a rough start to life. She posted on social media channels like Nextdoor and Facebook hoping to make the right connection.
Meanwhile, Good Cat Network learned that Hank, an employee at J.R. Peterson Foundation, was seeking a black kitty from Maui. Through a little networking, and maybe a little Maui magic, the stars aligned and we knew that Black Beauty’s story might be the perfect match for Hank.
We presented her personality traits, heartwarming story, videos, photos, and health stats to Hank for consideration. With next to no hesitation, Hank said yes!
Next, it was time to figure out how we would get her from Maui to San Diego, where Hank lives. Good Cat Network’s Operation Aloha Cat – in Honor of Louise H. Neuhoff transfer program specializes in group flights to our adoption partners on the continent, and so when it comes to a single cat needing to hitch a ride, we connected with the experts – Fly Hawaii Cats.
Fly Hawaii Cats is a program organized by two local non-profits: Maui Cat Rescue and Kitty Charm Farm. The program specializes in matching volunteer fliers (often vacation travelers) with cats that need to get from Hawaiʻi to homes or cat cafes on the continent.
Thankfully, they were able to find a wonderful couple in two shakes of a kitten tail! As soon as we had the go-ahead, Good Cat Network arranged for Black Beauty’s Health Certificate and vaccinations – and the rest is history!
Hank renamed Black Beauty Keala which is a Hawaiian name meaning “The Path.” The path can represent a spiritual and metaphorical journey as well as a physical one.
We agree, Keala has had quite the journey! And we all have, too.
Hank says Keala is doing wonderfully, and loves being around him as he works on his computer, and loves to play with her many toys.
We hope that Keala’s story helps you in your journey as well – to lend a hand to others at a time of need, to connect with animals, to deepen your relationships with loved ones, to have empathy, to provide volunteer service to local organizations dedicated to making good happen in the world.
Sign up to volunteer for Good Cat Network here
Learn more about Fly Hawaii Cats here
