Have you ever wondered what happens to pets when their owner passes away? It’s not often something I thought about since it hasn’t been a reality for me (yet). Anyone I know who has passed either had no pets or was survived by their partner who could continue caring for the pet.
But sadly, it’s a reality for many. Some pet parents have time to make arrangements, but many others do not have the time or resources, and pets can be left behind, put into shelters, confused about where their human went and why their life has changed so abruptly.
Thankfully, many rescue organizations help with this. One such organization came up on my Instagram feed the other day, and I was instantly drawn in. Whether it was the name or the message, I’m not sure, but I wanted to share My Grandfather’s Cat’s message and encourage you to not only follow their efforts but pay attention to those around you to see if you can help a pet parent and pet in need.
My Grandfather’s Cat
https://www.instagram.com/p/DH_D2U3xqan/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
According to their website, in December 2019, Angela Rafuse’s grandfather passed away in the hospital while waiting for admission into a retirement home. One reason he delayed the move was his commitment to caring for Mackenzie, his 14-year-old cat, who was left behind after his wife’s passing.
Mackenzie had a reputation for being difficult, and no one in the family was eager to adopt her. Faced with the choice of bringing her home or surrendering her to a shelter, the founder chose the former. Over time, Angela discovered that beneath Mackenzie’s grumpy exterior was an affectionate, adventurous companion.
As she shared their journey online, she heard from countless seniors grappling with the same concern: what would happen to their pets when they transitioned to a retirement home or passed away? Without family or friends to take them in, many feared their beloved animals would end up in shelters—just as her grandfather had feared for Mackenzie.
Recognizing the need for a solution, Angela founded and launched My Grandfather’s Cat on May 18, 2021—her grandfather’s birthday.
What began as a rehoming service has since grown into a nationwide (in Canada) initiative, offering pet placement assistance, a pet pantry, and educational resources on the vital role of animals in seniors’ lives.
My Grandfather’s Cat helps seniors and terminally ill individuals secure loving second homes for their pets before transitioning to retirement care or passing away. Unlike traditional rescues, the organization facilitates direct pet adoptions—bypassing shelters and foster systems—at no cost to adopters.
Beyond rehoming, the initiative supports pet owners through a pet pantry and educational resources, recognizing the vital role companionship animals provide in later life.
To date, My Grandfather’s Cat has found second forever homes for 315 cats and dogs, has fed 475 pets through their pet pantry and outreach events, and has helped 496 terminally ill people and families through their work. The team continues to ensure that no beloved pet is left without a home.
https://www.instagram.com/p/DHQtlGHhqMj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
How Can I Help?
Firstly, you can follow them on Instagram for adorable updates. The exposure helps them grow! If you’re based in Canada, you may want to join in person and volunteer for the organization. Or, if you feel a calling, you can donate to help their efforts go further.
And, in your own circles, it pays to be mindful of friends and family members who may need this type of planning and support to ensure peace of mind for them and their beloved pets.
My Grandfather’s Cat
