Heroes come from many walks in life. In animal rescue, some of the most caring and selfless heroes are mother cats willing to take in orphans as their own. A cat named Mama Sol captured our hearts in late March when she lovingly adopted a newborn kitten found helpless and alone in the rubble of a collapsed structure.

Before I tell you about Sol’s love for others, let me tell you about those who loved her first. Sol showed up at a family’s house two weeks before Christmas, hungry and thirsty. Despite having 6 rescue pets of their own, they immediately provided this sweet, pregnant mama cat with a warm bed, food, veterinary care, and the love every animal deserves. Unable to keep Sol and her kittens, the family made the heartbreaking decision to transition them into Palmetto Animal League’s foster care program, knowing each one would find a wonderful home. 

But as I mentioned before, Sol’s story does not end there. She was meant to pass the love she had received along to another in need. 

“Sol was already in a foster home with her biological kittens, when PAL was alerted about a lone newborn kitten found in the rubble of a torn down building,” explains PAL Adoption Coordinator Sally Dawkins.” 

Sol’s foster moms, a mother/daughter team, knew she would accept this sweet baby as her own, so we made the introduction right away. The tiny kitten found in the rubble, only a few days old, was quickly welcomed into his new family.  

“PAL fought hard for the life of a single, stray, newborn kitten,” says Sol’s foster mom Jillian Gerber. “I think this story is one of love, understanding, and triumph.”  

And so, a hero (who had just given birth) was born. Sol’s heart was so full of love from the kindness she had received, she didn’t think twice about extending the same.   

Do you have a pet with a special story? Celebrate your animal May 1-7 during National Pet Week by ordering a Pet Portrait Tile from Palmetto Animal League. PAL’s Pet Portrait Tiles recognize the love a pet has brought to your life. One tile will be displayed at PAL in “Honor” or “Memory” of your pet, and a second tile can become a beautiful display in your home. Order today at PalmettoAnimalLeague.org and save $50! Proceeds support PAL’s No Kill Adoption Center. 

Love saved Mama Sol, her kittens, and one precious orphan. Your Pet Portrait Tile, ordered today, will pay it forward to save another animal waiting for rescue.

Amy Campanini, Palmetto Animal League President

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! 

Thank you to our Partners in Rescue, The Bluffton Sun and The Hilton Head Sun for being beacons of compassion and hope for homeless pets in our community. Please show your support for these local animal loving businesses!