Willamina
The Long Way Home
A true model of patience and modesty, Willamina had the dubious distinction of being our longest resident at the ASPCA Adoption Center—she was with us for more than 800 days! Though we loved having the little fireball around, we all cheered loudly when she finally found her forever home with Brooklynite Dana Wagner. Below Dana describes the fortuitous events that lead to their meeting, which was most certainly meant to be.
ASPCA: How did you first hear about Willamina? Dana: I first saw Willamina's bio and video on ASPCA.org over a year ago. I was immediately drawn to her, and kept noticing over the past year that she was still available for adoption.
ASPCA: When did you officially meet?
Dana: In early April, I was browsing the adoptable cats list online, not intending to adopt, when I saw Willamina again. I re-posted her page on Facebook and Twitter, but something stirred in me, and I felt perhaps she belonged with our family. I discussed it with my partner, Iris, and we decided to go to the ASPCA to meet her.
ASPCA: Was it love at first sight?
Dana: I knew right then and there that I would not leave without Willamina. I guess that her medical condition was the reason many potential adoptive parents had passed her up during her two years at the ASPCA, but it didn't deter us. She was so sweet and absolutely perfect. I knew that she belonged with us.
ASPCA: Do you have any other pets?
Dana: Yes, we have three other cats: Spanky (2), Kai (5) and Hershey (5)—all boys. All were adopted as kittens from local animal rescue organizations.
ASPCA: How has Willamina settled into her new home?
Dana: She's assertive and has been curiously exploring the apartment—the bedroom is her favorite place and she loves to cuddle at night. The boys have really welcomed her in, and Spanky, in particular, has been trying to get closer to her, but I think she's a bit shy when he gets too close.
ASPCA: Does she have any funny habits or behaviors?
Dana: Yes! When she gets playful, she will nibble at our hands like they’re toys, turn herself upside down on her back and start kicking wildly with excitement.
ASPCA: What does she mean to you and your family?
Dana: Willamina is a joy and a wonderful addition to our family. We're very happy to have found this sweet girl who was cared for by the ASPCA but couldn't find the right home. We know she was just waiting to come to ours!