Vickie and Sydney

The chapter recently matched Vickie Hart, a U.S. Army Sergeant Veteran, and her new companion, a cat named Sydney. The Veteran wanted a calm, affectionate indoor cat to cuddle and keep her company at her residence. Although breed and color were of little concern to Vickie, she shared that her favorite cat growing up had been Morris the Cat.

Our animal trainer visited multiple rescues and shelters in the local area to find the perfect cat for Vickie. As if by fate, Sydney, a domestic shorthair orange tabby looking strikingly like Morris the Cat, was found patiently waiting at Montgomery County Animal Services, a Pets for Vets rescue partner. Not only was Sydney the Veteran’s physical ideal; his adoption profile described him as being an affectionate, "kind-hearted gentleman” who enjoys being petted and when “sitting in your lap will bring finger kisses (licks), happy toes (kneading), and purring.”

After a successful visit with the veterinarian, Sydney was transferred to Pets for Vets and placed with a volunteer foster for several weeks of observation and training. In the meantime, Pets for Vets equipped the Veteran with all the supplies she would need to begin her new life with Sydney. Once it was certain that Sydney was the perfect match for Vickie, a date was set for the two to be introduced. On Match Day, Vickie met Sydney for the first time and, to Vickie’s hugs and tears of joy, Sydney returned a kiss on the cheek. Since that joyful day, Vickie reports that Sydney has made himself at home and that the two continue to bond very closely. “I am in love,” says Vickie. “You found me a perfect match.”