INDIANA, Pa. (KDKA) – A cat has taken a second chance and landed a new job at Purrfect after surrendering to an Indiana County animal shelter by a closed local nursing home.
The cat story sheds light on the differences that animals make in the lives of older people, especially those with Alzheimer's disease and cognitive decline.
George is not your typical staff. Employees with beards and curved ears specialize in providing emotional support to nursing home residents.
“He surrendered to a nursing home that was closed locally. A few weeks ago he came to us. He was very shy, very quiet, very ti-sick.”
Valeski said he realized he wasn't ready for cat retirement while caring for George at an Indiana shelter.
“Every time we walked by the kennel, he was just waiting to hand over a tiny little neck. Someone came to pet me so he could say he's a bit depressed about it. I did it,” he said.
Alex posted on Facebook to consider hiring George at all nursing homes.
“We applied some nursing homes, and he was actually quite popular, but we went best.
The talented kitten was hired and hired at Forest Hills Personal Care Home in the Sidman area of Cumbria County. The facility run by Christine Weaver and her daughter Brielle Sokira specializes in animal therapy. They have many animal staff, including miniature horses, birds, bunnies and more.
They both said they knew George was a “purrfect” fit and he ran on the first day and hit the ground.
“He literally jumps in right in on rap, hugs and sleeps with them. That's great, and you can say that's his job,” Weaver said. .
“He does rounds every morning and goes from room to room. Whenever you can find them, we're probably 15 because he was in the 13th room,” Sokira said. I did.
To show how much joy this sweet man brings to the residents and staff. Valeski decided to create a video depicting George's story and post it on the shelter's social media page, which has been viewed over a million times on two platforms, including the two platforms.
The hope is that this hardworking cat will adopt a cat employee who can inspire other nursing homes and comfort older residents.
“I think animals teach that language isn't necessarily necessary. So when you like to see your face brighter and your overall attitude change,” Sokira said.
“There's a universal language when it comes to pornographic bunnies, kittens and horses. It has a wonderful calming effect that brings peace to them, and the whole idea that pets are involved in their physical environment is what they are saying. I'll give you something to look forward to,” Weaver said.
More about CBS News
Jessica Guai
