Adopting a pet is already a huge, life-changing event, but what does adopting during lockdowns look like - especially when your new furry friend is coming from another state? Kiki is based in Canberra and let us know all about her experience of adopting her furry best friend Oliver interstate from NSW while they were in lockdown a couple of months ago.
Like so many other adopters, Kiki had always wanted to adopt a wonderful rescue pet, but had decided to wait until she’d purchased her own home to take this big step. After she had purchased an apartment, she decided that a kitty would make the perfect cute little companion. Having recently gone through a relationship ending, she was prioritising living her life to the fullest and finding peace and happiness within herself.
Kiki heard about PetRescue from her best friend and wasted no time starting her search for a rescue kitty! She soon found adorable little kitten Oliver’s profile via Furry Friends Forever Rescue.
At the time, Oliver was only 13 weeks old, and the adorable photos of the little ginger kitty with white socks made her heart melt. His description was 'playful and dog friendly' which helped to seal the deal even further. After making an application, Kiki chatted to Oliver’s foster mum Lisa on the phone, who made the decision to adopt Oliver su-purr easy!
After Kiki made the exciting decision to welcome Oliver into her home, the next few days were a whirlwind! The first thing she did was to go on a shopping spree for Oliver to buy a bow tie collar with his name engraved on it, as well as toys, toiletries and food - she couldn’t wait to spoil her new furry friend and make him as comfortable as possible.
Because NSW was in lockdown, Lisa continued to care for Oliver for another month, and Kiki organised transport through DogMovers, who made the move easy and comfortable - she couldn’t recommend them enough! Kathariya jumped online and started researching how best to introduce herself to Oliver and how to make sure that he was as comfortable as possible in his new home. She made sure to give him the space he needed by opening the cat carrier to the bathroom with some water, toys and his litter tray. He very quickly ventured out of the bathroom, strutting around the house like a supermodel, exploring and making himself at home in no time!
That night, Kiki Facetimed Lisa with him and the pair snuggled up together to watch TV. She knew already that Oliver had found his home and they were meant to be together.
Oliver isn’t your regular cat - he loves water. He’ll happily dip his little paws into the sink when Kiki is doing the dishes, and will even surprise her by making an appearance in the shower! He also likes to play fetch with nerf bullets, beauty blenders, worm toys, his fishing rod feather toy and rubber bands.
Kiki says about Oliver:
‘’Oliver has really turned my world upside down, he is so loving, cheeky, adventurous and such a mama's boy. Even though he does crazy zoomies at 3am it doesn't bother me one bit because I have all the love in the world for this little handsome boy. He's had a tough beginning and I just want to shower him in all my love and care.’’
She says that her life was already jam-packed with excitement, but Oliver has just brought a whole new level of entertainment with him! The duo has been for walks, outdoor adventures, and he’s met lots of new people and dogs! Kiki says;
‘’Oliver has given me more life! It was such a responsibility taking on a pet but I honestly wouldn't look back on my decision to adopt him. He really does make me want to be a better person and I just want to show him endless love and give him the best life possible.’’
Ready to welcome a feline friend (or two!) into your home? Start your search today!
Want to see more adorable photos of Oliver? You can follow him on Instagram at @gingerandninja.