Ringo the cat spent two fulfilling years with his foster caregiver, Pearl Kitay. Initially a dog person, Kitay quickly adapted to having Ringo as her first cat, forming a close bond. "Every morning we get up and have breakfast and Ringo’s new favorite treat. It’s very nice to have ‘someone’ waiting at home and to talk to,” Kitay shared.
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After Kitay's death on February 14 from complications following surgery, Ringo returned to the Hearts That Purr Sanctuary’s Senior Citizens and Senior Kittizens foster program. "We believe Ringo knows it was hers and he likes to sit on it," said Jeanmarie Schiller-McGinnis, founder of Hearts That Purr, referring to a favorite housecoat of Kitay’s that was brought for Ringo. The organization emphasizes the importance of familiar scents in comforting cats during transitions.
Since 2013, Hearts That Purr has focused on providing loving care for cats left behind. The foster initiative, launched in 2015, connects seniors aged 55 and older with senior cats from the sanctuary. Some of these cats are rescued from shelters, while others enter through the Feline Guardian program, which guarantees lifelong care for cats should their owners pass.
The aim is to create a supportive environment for both the cats and their elderly caregivers. Studies indicate that having an animal companion can enhance mood and provide health benefits. The program seeks to ensure permanent placements for the cats, with ongoing support available from the sanctuary. If a caregiver can no longer care for a cat, it can return to the sanctuary.
Schiller-McGinnis noted the challenges facing senior cats when their caregivers are unable to care for them. "Without preplanning, many older cats meet tragic ends when their caregiver enters hospice or passes on," she said. Hearts That Purr is unique in Arizona as a sanctuary rather than a shelter, depending on public donations and volunteers to operate.
At the Hearts That Purr ranch house in northwest Tucson, volunteers care for the cats in a spacious, home-like environment. Currently, 26 cats reside in the facility, including bonded pairs like 15-year-old brothers Hewey and Tudley, and some will remain in hospice care for the rest of their lives due to medical issues.
Galdi reflected on her mother’s joy with Ringo, stating, "There was someone there that needed and wanted her. I think what they are doing is a blessing for so many, human and pet alike.” The organization offers ongoing support and veterinary care for qualified foster parents and welcomes new volunteers.
For more information about Hearts That Purr, visit www.heartsthatpurr.org. M.M. Graf is a retired teacher and a volunteer with the organization. Pearl Kitay's obituary is noted on page 22 of the publication.