Home. It’s so much more than a place. It’s a feeling. A feeling of being safe, warm and special. Of being loved and happy. Of belonging. Home is everything. And it’s exactly what Reggie wished for…
In August 2023, five-year old Reggie was found stray and brought to safety at the SPCA Kings Shelter by a Good Samaritan. It was obvious that life on the streets had not been easy for Reggie. When he arrived, he had open wounds at the base of his tail that needed immediate medical attention. His fur was patchy, dry and brittle and upon examination, staff discovered many small scabs on his skin. Reggie was very itchy and needed treatment so his fur could grow back in patchy areas. Showered with care and attention, Reggie healed and was put up for adoption in October. And that’s when his wish came true. 
Heidi, her husband Alan and their daughter Peyton had lost their beloved cat Whiskey in 2022. Peyton had been asking for another kitty for some time, so they went to the Kings SPCA one Saturday ‘just to look.’ Famous last words! Heidi recalled “Reggie was the last cat we took out of their kennel to play with and he checked all the right boxes. First, he met our family’s needs, including getting along with children and dogs. Second, he was a ginger kitty that Peyton had hoped for. Third, Peyton instantly fell in love with him and said he was the one. So, Reggie came home with us that same day.”
Peyton had originally planned to name their new family member Peaches, but they all loved Reggie’s name so much that they knew they had to keep it. Reggie adapted to his new home immediately. “We were amazed when he walked out of his crate and into our home like he had lived with us his entire life,” said Heidi. “From the get-go, he was never nervous. He’d actually remain sleeping contentedly even if one of us petted him or if Peyton jumped on the bed or couch next to him. His comfort level was so surprising given that he was found stray. We will never know, but perhaps Reggie had a family at some point.”
“Incredibly, the first night Reggie spent with us, he slept with us in our bed under the blankets,” exclaimed Alan. “Since then, he either sleeps in Peyton’s bed or with us. He will often nap in Peyton’s bed even when she is not there. We tell Peyton that Reggie knows she is the one who chose him and granted his wish for a forever home.”
The family respected the fact that initially, Reggie didn’t want to be picked up and held. Now he’s a champion cuddler! It took a few days for their 12-year old dog Shubie and Reggie to become familiar with one another, but they soon became the best of friends.
Reggie loves to show off his ultimate hunting skills and protect his surroundings and family from unexpected, and somewhat uninvited, tiny visitors. But his favourite thing to do (aside from spending time with his people) is eating. “Reggie loves food and treats. Nothing is safe left on the counter or on a plate in our home!” chuckled Heidi. 
The couple summed up “Reggie has been a wonderful addition to our family. He constantly makes us smile and laugh. When he doesn’t get his way, he is quick to find cardboard or paper to rip to shreds in protest! And he has a special bond with Peyton. Seeing Reggie so peaceful and content with her at night is one of our favorite things.” And as for Peyton, she said “He’s so soft, so cute and I love him so much.”
Despite being a social butterfly and spending some afternoon TV time with neighbours, Reggie’s home is never far away because his home is more than a place. He knows that he is loved, that he belongs, that he is special. He is home.