As we close out the year, we are facing a heartbreaking reality: more pets than ever are being surrendered or abandoned because their families simply cannot afford to care for them. Rising living costs, veterinary expenses, and financial strain are pushing people into making difficult decisions – giving up their beloved companions.

At Homeward Pet, we are seeing this crisis every week. Owner surrenders are climbing. More families are reaching out for help, devastated but desperate to give their pets a chance at stability. In recent months, multiple animals have been abandoned at our shelter, found tied to our gate or left outside our doors in their kennels – because their owners saw no other option.

Although abandonment isn’t encouraged or the path we hope for, our safe surrender process exists to give pets and their families a secure and supported transition into our care.

When someone is overwhelmed, out of resources, and out of time, they look to us because what they want, more than anything, is for their pet to make it through this difficult moment and find the stable, loving future they deserve.

Uber was found tied to a picnic table on our property with a note that read: “This is Uber. Please take care of him, he is a good boy.”

The note highlighted a heartbreaking reality: his owner was battling a terminal illness that was progressing much faster than doctors predicted. They had hoped for more time to find him a home, dreading the moment they’d have to say goodbye to their only source of support.

But with no family and no other options, they left him at the only place they trusted to care for him.

Though he arrived scared, Uber quickly found love – first in the hands of our volunteers, and then in the warmth of a foster family. But tragically, his journey took another turn. Our vet staff discovered that Uber was suffering from inoperable cancer, and we had to lead him, paw in hand, to a peace none of us wanted for him.

Uber never knew he hadn’t found a “forever” home in the traditional sense. To him, he was home. His final two months were filled with a sunny backyard, cozy spa days, and a loving foster family. He met hundreds of new friends who told him how perfect he was every single day.

His life may have been short, but he changed ours forever.

Chickpea was also abandoned.

When her family packed up and moved away, they left her behind in the only neighborhood she had ever known. She spent countless days searching for the familiar faces and the loving hands she remembered.

While she didn’t find her previous family, fate led her to a different kind of miracle.

She found herself in the yard of a kind-hearted Good Samaritan. While this person couldn’t keep her, they knew where to go. They placed Chickpea in a carrier and left her safely outside Homeward Pet’s gates just before dawn. Attached to the carrier was a handwritten note—a sincere plea for help: “I’m sorry to just drop her off but I didn’t know what to do. Please help her find a good home.”

Initially, Chickpea was terrified, cowering in the corner of the carrier, unsure if this was just another heartache. But as she was handled with gentleness and warmth, she slowly began to understand: she was safe.

We coordinated with our local animal care agency to care for her during her mandated stray hold.

Because of caring people like you, we were able to give Chickpea everything she needed during her stay with us: medical care, a warm bed, and a promise that she would never be alone again. After the required stray hold, we officially put Chickpea up for adoption.

And despite her shaky, lonely beginnings, Chickpea’s story has the happiest ending: she found a lovely, forever home.

Left behind without explanation, Echo has been having a particularly hard time adjusting to life at the shelter.

Abandonment is confusing for any animal, but for Echo, the transition has seemed especially heartbreaking. He cries for hours, unsure why everything he knew is no longer. His world changed overnight, and all he can do is call out for people who are no longer there.

Our behavior team is working closely with him – sitting quietly near his kennel, offering gentle reassurance, and helping him build small moments of safety. They’re teaching him that he’s not alone, that hands can be kind, and that, even though this chapter began in fear, it won’t end that way.

With time, patience, and the right support, Echo will learn to trust again.

And with your help, he’ll have the chance to move from confusion and heartbreak toward healing and hope.

Recently, a staff member arriving early in the morning for their shift found Rockefeller alone in a crate left outside our gate.

He was scared, extremely anxious, and he was in bad shape – painfully underweight, dehydrated, and suffering from severe diarrhea. We later learned he was fighting an uncomfortable parasite called Coccidia on top of everything else.

We let the local animal control agency know we had him and accepted responsibility for handling his mandatory stray hold and began treatment immediately. He received anti-parasitic medications, anti-nausea support, hydration, and a behavior medication plan designed to help him feel safe and calm as he healed.

Slowly, Rockefeller is improving. He’s steadily gaining weight, his system is stabilizing. He has moments where he lets his guard down, allowing a glimpse of the friendly, goofy dog hidden beneath the fear.

But his fight is far from over.

Rockefeller still requires dedicated medical oversight, patient and consistent behavioral rehabilitation, and above all, time to heal – a gift he may not have received if he hadn’t landed on our doorstep.

This holiday season, your compassion can be the lifeline that guides pets from fear to healing on their journey home.

Because of your generosity, every animal who comes to Homeward Pet (whatever their story) will be welcomed with care, dignity, and a real chance to begin again.

Please help us continue saying yes to the animals who have nowhere else to turn.

Stuart Earley Takes Up Post as Homeward Pet Executive Director in January, 2026

“We are thrilled that Stuart will lead Homeward into its next chapter,” said Peter Bergler, president of HPAC’s board of directors.

Earley is a respected leader in the field of animal welfare, has passion for making a difference and developing organizations and people.  He has a demonstrated track record in successful change management throughout career improving performance, cost effectiveness and customer service. After an extensive search, Stuart was the obvious choice.

Earley served most recently as Executive Director with the Tahoma Bird Alliance. Prior to that he spent 15 years in animal welfare serving as the CEO of the Scottish SPCA, and then as CEO of the Humane Society for Tacoma and Pierce County.

“I’m very excited about working with everyone at Homeward Pet Adoption Center because I love the focus of the organization on helping families and their pets stay together,” said Earley. “I appreciate the wonderful work that HPAC is doing with fear free sheltering, animal socialization and medical support. There are great opportunities to expand fundraising and create a new shelter as a team. I’m really looking forward to joining such a dedicated group of people.”

About Homeward Pet:

Homeward Pet Adoption Center (HPAC) is one of Washington State’s leading non-profit, no-kill animal shelters. Its mission is to transform the lives of cats and dogs in need through compassionate medical care, positive behavior training, and successful adoption—all while fostering a more humane community.

HPAC adheres to the principles and practices of Fear Free Sheltering and provides individualized attention to every animal in its care. Thanks to an in-house veterinary clinic and specialized programs, HPAC can offer each dog or cat whatever behavioral, medical, and foster care they need prior to adoption.

As a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, HPAC operates without state or federal funding and relies solely on the generosity of donors and dedicated volunteers. This support enables HPAC to go above and beyond for every animal, particularly for those requiring the extra attention and resources that other organizations may not offer.

HPAC has built strong partnerships with other shelters and animal welfare organizations across our region and state – collectively expanding the work to save more animals.

Learn more at homewardpet.org

Homeward Pet is fortunate to have so many wonderful community partners. There’s always something fun to do in our backyard, so check back often and support our partners while helping care for our homeless dogs and cats. 

Logo	Event Name	Date/Time	Info
	Flash Tattoo Fundraiser Winsome Ciderworks 19495 144th Ave NE A140, Woodinville, WA 98072	Friday, July 10, 2026 4:00 – 10:00 pm	Suggested donation $80 per tattoo, tips encouraged. Flash tattoo designs will be created for the event Cap of 12 people.  We recommend you arrive early to get your name on a list. Enjoy a cider or two while you wait.  They’re delicious!
	Bella’s Voice Anni-fur-sary Festival Ballinger Playfield, 23000 Lakeview Dr, Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043	Saturday, July 11, 2026 11:00 am – 3:00 pm	Community animal focused vendor fair supporting animal welfare organizations and celebrating Bella’s Voice 12 year anniversary Outdoor, in person vendor event, animal related No products containing leather, fur, meat, or gelatin will be sold or displayed (pet food products are exempt from this requirement)
	Kenmore Summer Concert Series Saint Edward State Park 14445 Juanita Dr NE, Kenmore, WA 98028	Thursday, July 30, 2026 6:00 – 8:00 pm	Community outreach and engagement opportunity during the City of Kenmore Summer Concert Series to connect with local residents and share information about Homeward Pet’s programs and adoptable pets Outdoor, in person concert series event alongside food trucks, and family activities
	Sam’s Cats and Dogs 21st Anniversary Sale 20016 Old Owen Rd Monroe, WA	Sunday, August 2, 2026	Community Day as part of Sam’s Cats and Dogs 21st Anniversary Sale weekend, featuring 25% off the entire store Outdoor vendor booths
	Celebrate Woodinville Summer Festival Wilmot Gateway Park, 17301 131st Ave NE, Woodinville, WA 98072	Saturday, August 8, 2026 12 – 4 pm	Community festival celebrating Woodinville with local businesses, nonprofits, artists, food vendors, family activities, music, and craft beverage garden Outdoor, in person community festival with exhibitor booths, entertainment, food vendors, and activities Homeward Pet will have an exhibitor table and plans to bring Pup Cup Cart
	Seattle Sounders Fundraiser Lumen Field 800 Occidental Ave S, Seattle, WA 98134, US	Sunday, August 16, 2026 6:00pm kickoff	Join us in cheering on the Seattle Sounders as they take on the Vancouver Whitecaps in one of the biggest rivalry matches of the season! A portion of your ticket to the match will directly support Homeward Pet Adoption Center. Gates open at 5:00 PM, Kickoff at 6:00 PM.
	Share the Love Novostone Showroom 1414 Director Street Seattle, WA 98108	Saturday, August 22, 2026 3:00 – 7:00 pm	Join us for an afternoon of community, compassion, and connection, as we come together to support rescue animals and help create better futures for pets in need. Furry pets welcome, photos with your pet, insight into the adoption and foster processes, food and drinks, fun activities, raffles and fundraising. $20 admission/adult – ticket proceeds donated to Homeward Pet
	Kenmore Summer Concert Series Saint Edward State Park 14445 Juanita Dr NE, Kenmore, WA 98028	Thursday, August 27, 2026 6:00 – 8:00 pm	Community outreach and engagement opportunity during the City of Kenmore Summer Concert Series to connect with local residents and share information about Homeward Pet’s programs and adoptable pets Outdoor, in person concert series event alongside food trucks, and family activities
	Ballard Pet Celebration Ballard Commons Park	Sunday, October 5, 2026 12:00 – 3:00 pm	St. Luke’s Episcopal Church is organizing the Ballard Pet Celebration at Ballard Commons Park on Sunday, October 5. The event will focus on celebrating the animals in people’s lives, remembering pets that have been loved and lost, and raising awareness about how to better care for animals.
	Making Strides of Seattle – Bark for Breast Cancer	Saturday, October 10, 2026 9:00 am – 12:00 pm	Support the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides of Seattle event by hosting the annual Bark for Breast Cancer experience and engaging participants with dogs in a fun, community focused activity Homeward Pet will host and help judge the Bark for Breast Cancer dog costume contest. Participants and their dogs will participate in a runway style walk, with winners selected in real time. This year, the costume contest and announcements will take place before the walk route opens.

If you are planning an event that will benefit Homeward Pet, please contact to coordinate any participation you might need from us.

Helping Your Newly Adopted Cat Feel at Home:
A Gentle Guide to Building Trust, Routine & Safe Spaces

The First Few Days: Setting the Stage for Comfort and Security

Bringing home a newly adopted cat is an exciting and emotional moment, but it’s important to remember that while this may feel like the start of something beautiful for you, your cat is experiencing a major life change. Everything smells different. The sounds are unfamiliar. Even the people are new. That’s why starting slow is one of the most compassionate things you can do.

In the first few days, your goal isn’t to get your cat to explore or play, it’s simply to help them feel safe.

Start by preparing a quiet, enclosed room where they can decompress at their own pace. Think of it as their “base camp.” This space should include:

• A cozy bed or blanket where they can burrow or hide
• Fresh water and food placed in a corner (not too close to the litter box)
• A clean litter box with easy access
• A scratching post or pad for stress relief and marking behavior
• A hiding spot like a covered bed, cardboard box, or even an open carrier with a blanket inside

Avoid overwhelming your cat by giving them access to the entire house right away. While it may be tempting to show them all the love and attention they’ve been missing, too much space too soon can trigger stress and make them retreat even more. Let them come out of hiding when they’re ready, some cats will venture out in hours, others may take days.

Reading Their Cues: Let Your Cat Set the Pace

Every cat has their own way of adjusting, and learning to speak their language is one of the most meaningful ways you can support them. During the early days, your cat may not meow, cuddle, or play right away. But they are communicating. You just need to know what to look for.

Body language is a cat’s first and most honest form of expression. A tucked tail, wide eyes, flattened ears, or crouching posture may signal fear or uncertainty. Hiding under the bed or in the closet is normal and not a rejection, it’s self-protection. On the other hand, a slow blink, relaxed body, or curious sniffing from a distance may show that they’re starting to feel safe.

To gently build trust, try these low-pressure ways to connect:

• Sit quietly nearby – Just being present helps them get used to your scent and presence.
• Avoid direct eye contact – A soft gaze or slow blink is more comforting than a stare.
• Offer treats from a distance – Place them nearby and let your cat decide if and when to approach.
• Talk softly – Your voice can become a familiar comfort without requiring interaction.
• Don’t force physical contact – Let your cat make the first move when they feel ready.

Establishing a Calming Routine

Cats are creatures of habit. When everything in their world feels new and unpredictable, like during the first days in a new home, a consistent routine can be one of the most comforting gifts you can give.

Routine reduces anxiety by helping your cat know what to expect. Predictable patterns create a sense of control, and that sense of control builds confidence and trust.

Here’s a simple daily structure to help your new cat settle in:

• Feeding Times: Serve meals at the same times every day (morning and evening are ideal). Regular meals create a rhythm and let your cat know they’re cared for.
• Play Sessions: Dedicate 10–15 minutes a couple of times a day to interactive play. Use wand toys or feather teasers to mimic “hunting” and burn off nervous energy.
• Clean Litter Box Daily: A clean litter box isn’t just hygiene, it’s a signal that their environment is safe and maintained.
• Quiet Time: Build in peaceful, undisturbed time where your cat can nap, watch the world, or retreat to their safe space without interruption.
• Gentle Interaction: Try talking softly to your cat at the same times each day (like before feeding or bedtime) to create reassuring verbal rituals.

Keep in mind, it’s less about what you do and more about how consistently you do it.

The Power of Alone Time: Why Solitude Can Be Healing

While it’s tempting to shower your newly adopted cat with love and attention, sometimes the best gift you can offer is space.

Many rescue cats have been through overwhelming experiences, whether it’s time spent in a shelter, on the streets, or in multiple homes. The adjustment to a new environment, no matter how loving, can stir up anxiety. That’s why intentional alone time is so important.

Creating designated, low-traffic areas where your cat can retreat without pressure or interruption helps them regulate stress and recharge. These safe havens provide a sense of control, which is essential for emotional healing.

Here are some calming retreat ideas to offer your cat:

• Covered beds or cat caves – Ideal for cats who like dark, enclosed spots to hide and rest.
• Vertical spaces – Wall shelves or cat trees give shy cats a high vantage point to observe from a safe distance.
• Cozy hideouts – Even a simple cardboard box with a blanket can offer a much-needed sense of security.
• Outdoor escape (enclosed catio) – For cats who enjoy fresh air and quiet time in nature, a catio (a secure outdoor enclosure) can be the perfect sanctuary.

H2: Enrichment Builds Confidence

When a cat enters a new home, everything feels uncertain. Enrichment helps bridge that gap, giving them activities that not only distract from anxiety but also help them feel more in control of their environment.

Think of enrichment as giving your cat healthy “jobs” that engage their natural instincts: stalking, chasing, sniffing, scratching, and problem-solving. These activities burn off nervous energy, boost confidence, and promote a sense of normalcy in an unfamiliar space.

Here are simple enrichment ideas to get started:

• Puzzle feeders – Make mealtime more rewarding by turning it into a mini hunt.
• Interactive toys – Wand toys, feather teasers, or battery-powered mice let your cat safely “hunt” and play.
• Scent games – Hide treats around their safe room to spark curiosity and exploration.
• Scratching posts – Vertical or horizontal options help them mark territory and relieve stress.
• Background sounds – Soft music, cat TV, or even a bubbling fountain can offer soothing stimulation.

A Journey of Trust and Patience

Welcoming a newly adopted cat into your life is an act of love, and like any meaningful relationship, it takes time to grow. Some cats may warm up within days, while others need weeks or even months to truly settle in. Wherever your cat falls on that spectrum, know this: every small step forward is a victory.

Whether it’s the first time they venture out from hiding, the first soft purr, or the moment they choose your lap for a nap, these moments are worth celebrating. They’re signs that your cat is beginning to feel safe, seen, and at home.

By offering them calming spaces, consistent routines, and plenty of patience, you’re giving your cat everything they need to thrive.

The bond you’re building takes time, but it’s one rooted in trust. And that trust, once earned, becomes the heart of a lifelong friendship.