An Unexpected Night for Lala
On a cold November night, the life of an 11-year-old cat named Lala changed forever. One moment she was in the warmth and comfort of her family home, and the next, she was alone and frightened—left in a carrier outside the Humane Society of Greater Miami on a busy street.
Tiffany Hernandez, assistant marketing and social media manager for the shelter, described the scene vividly to The Dodo: “She was in the dark in a carrier by herself. Anything could have happened.”
A Heartbreaking Discovery
As the morning staff arrived to open the shelter, they were saddened to find the abandoned feline. Attached to Lala’s crate was a handwritten note that tugged at everyone’s heartstrings.
“She has been a part of our family for eleven years,” the note read. It was clear that Lala once had a loving home but was now left alone at an age when stability and comfort are most needed.
Adjustment Wasn’t Easy for Lala
The transition from a lifelong home to the loud, unfamiliar environment of a shelter was understandably hard on Lala. She remained emotionally shut down for some time, unsure of how to respond to her new surroundings.
According to Hernandez, “It was really sad to read.” The staff members were particularly affected by her senior status—cats at this age often struggle more with change than younger ones.
The Waiting Game
Since her arrival back in 2023, shelter staff have been hoping someone would notice Lala. Despite their efforts, she remains unadopted. One of the reasons, Hernandez explains, is her naturally shy nature that doesn’t immediately attract potential adopters.
“She’s just very fearful in a shelter environment, unfortunately,” said Hernandez. But those who take the time to bond with her have discovered a different side of Lala—one that is affectionate, gentle, and loving.
Lala’s Glimpse of a Better Life
During a short stay in a foster home, Lala began to show her true personality. With patience and a calm environment, she transformed into a much more relaxed and trusting cat, reinforcing the idea that she simply needs the right match.
Recently, a visitor came to meet Lala with hopes of adopting her. Although the adoption didn’t go through, it was a breakthrough in showing just how affectionate Lala can be. The visitor shared their experience on Instagram, describing how Lala warmed up within minutes.
“Within a few minutes, I had her eating Temptations out of my hand, licking me and letting me give her cheek and head scratches,” the visitor wrote. This glimpse gave hope to the team that the right adopter is out there.
A Quiet Home Could Change Everything
Lala would thrive in a serene, loving home where she can settle in gradually. A foster-to-adopt arrangement is highly encouraged, allowing adopters to get to know her at her pace before making a lifelong commitment.
Despite her rough start, her affectionate nature shines through once trust is earned. “Once they see her come out of her shell,” Hernandez said, “we know they will fall in love.”
With time, patience, and love, Lala can enjoy the peaceful, happy senior years she deserves. The Humane Society of Greater Miami continues to care for her, hoping her perfect match is just around the corner.
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