On any given day in Dale, SC, you’ll find David Blue and his rescue cats tending to their flowers. For many, gardening is a hobby, but for David and his cats, it’s a profession! He owns Farmer Blue, a 12-acre flower farm that supplies flowers to florists and event planners throughout the Lowcountry. 

“I grew up on a farm with lots of animals,” says David. “Every creature had a job, both dogs and cats. Our animals were well looked after with vet care and good food, and each one had a job to do.” 

David has adopted three independent-minded female cats from Palmetto Animal League. Each one prefers the freedom to roam over the comforts of a traditional home, making David’s flower farm their ideal sanctuary. 

“They are all female because, as the lore goes, male cats are lazy mousers,” explains David.

David chose three of the least adoptable cats at PAL, those who turned their nose up at our homelike cat rooms and instead appreciated the lofty feel of our warehouse. David’s flower farm needed the loyal presence of cats with a proven track record of deterring rodents and the cats needed a place to call home.  

“I focus on sustainable, natural solutions to solving problems at my farm,” says David. “Cats are a way of keeping rodent populations to a minimum. I haven’t seen mole activity since May and the Dahlias are beautiful.”

David’s cats have an excellent work ethic (thought they do require intermittent naps) and in return they only ask for food, water, shelter, and love from afar. 

“The cats will have spontaneous moments of affection where they might rub against a boot or pant leg, but only occasionally will they let me touch them,” says David. “However, these social interactions are becoming more frequent.” 

David understands it takes time for some animals to acclimate and trust humans, but a fondness between animals was almost instant at Farmer Blue. 

“The cats are very interested in my Labrador Daisy,” says David. “They interact nearly every day and it’s amusing to watch.”   

With a little creative thinking, three reclusive cats found their perfect home, happily drifting amongst the Dahlias, Tulips, and Oleanders. Their story is a beautiful example of how non-traditional sanctuaries are saving lives. 

We love sharing stories of rescue and hope with all our animal loving friends. Get them delivered right to your inbox by signing up for our regular updates!