Please visit our dogs at the adoption center 12-5 Saturday and Sunday. The cats are in-residence so drop by any Tues, Wed, Thurs 5-8 and Sat. / Sun. 12-5 to have feline "face time!"
ANIMALS FOR ADOPTION   Hi, I'm Blanca! I'm a beautiful, graceful 18 month old young lady...it's Whippet DNA that gives me agility and elegance, and these characteristics allow me to call myself a lady! You'd only see me riding side-saddle, if I were to ride a horse. But I digress...Several months ago, my puppies and I were found chained in a backyard, without any shelter, food or water. After our rescue, my pups found wonderful new homes and I've been living in foster home heaven. My sweet nature, good humor, and unwavering happiness make me a joy to spend time with, and my report card says I get an A+ for being very trainable and playing well with others. My daily zen moment comes at walk time...I love to go on walks of all kinds...short ones, long ones, wet ones, dry ones, fast ones, and slow ones. I also love treats of all kinds, and as most dogs will tell you, treats really are a lot better than regular dog food. It's important to have treats, is all I'm saying. Anyhow, I'll be a wonderful companion and will keep you company while you handle all of your important human chores and projects (but you should know that I'm also secure enough to spend time alone and I never mind taking a nap in my kennel). Hope to meet you soon! Love, Blanca           Hi, I'm Mulligan! Have you ever had one of those terrible days that seem to go on forever, then stretch into weeks or maybe months, until finally you find yourself wretchedly amidst the rubble commonly referred to as "rock bottom"? Well, trust me, I can relate. Things began to snowball after I was laid off from my job as a family dog...I wound up broke and homeless. I couldn't afford to keep up with my health insurance, let alone get to the spa for a bath or a pedicure. I took up residence around the perimeter of a local golf course, where I slowly began to starve as well as get eaten alive by all the bugs. I noticed a guy who came to practice his shots off the tee quite a bit, and after I had staked him out for awhile and determined he was probably going to be my second chance at a good life, I made my signature move! My signature move involves rolling around belly up on somebody's foot, followed by a generous dose of kissing. Works like a charm... Here's me the day after I was found... And here I am only a week later! Well, just a few days after that guy brought me home, I was almost as good as new! All I needed was a little TLC, and my outside is well on the way toward matching the beauty that lies within. I'm a one-year old girl, about forty-five pounds , and very well mannered! Everyone thinks I am an American Bulldog mix, because of my pink skin, black freckles, and my goofy underbite. As long as it's cute to you, I'll be glad I never shelled out for an orthodontist! I have both a dog room-mate and a cat room-mate at my foster home, and we hit it off right away. I love games of tug, chasing a tennis ball, and generally wrestling like a clown. However, my favorite activity of all is snuggling all of myself into a human and falling asleep there!   Come and see me on the weekends during adoption hours!   Love, Mully Hi, I'm Piglet! What do you mean there's something on my face? How did I get the name Piglet, you ask? No idea...none at all. Unless it has something to do with my appetite, which is very well deserved. See, I was dumped with my buddy (a tiny Chihuahua) on a very busy street in the Heights. We don't know why. We took shelter at an abandoned house, hung out on the porch, and searched for food at a nearby restaurant. We didn't have shirts or shoes though, so we had trouble getting a table. Some people noticed us sleeping on a faded Victorian settee and started leaving food for us, which was nice, but suddenly, they took my only friend and left me out there by myself. I waited everyday on the settee for my buddy to return, but they never brought him back to visit. I was so lonely and scared. I found a new friend to hang out with - he was also tiny, but he only spoke one word, "Meow." We never did break the language barrier. Next, a nice lady came by everyday to talk to me and feed me; she said the waif look was out and that I was too skinny, plus she mentioned that my hairloss due to malnutrition was just no good for me. One day she invited me over to see her house and meet her family. What luxuries! I got a bath - that felt so good, played with her doggies, discovered the two meal a day lifestyle, and learned to sleep in crate all by myself at night. Now I am currently in a foster home with two big doggies that love to play with me, and my foster mom takes me on walks and says I am so good at it! I am eager to please and even potty trained myself and taught myself how to use a doggie door. I really like people and people with treats are even better! I will be a smallish girl when I grow up. I am about 6-9 months old and full of love, and although I had a rough start and have lots to learn about living indoors (I discovered myself in a mirror and barked at myself which made my foster mom laugh. And the blow-dryer? Now that's a strange thing), I will make you smile everyday! Love, Piglet   Hi, I'm Hardy! I'm a 4 year American Pit Bull Terrier mix, and I'm all girl! Before you give in to any preconceived bias you may have about the Bull Terrier breed, let me advocate briefly for myself...my bloodlines predispose me to being bright, loyal, affectionate, loyal, highly trainable, comical, and loyal. Oh, and loyal. Ok, enough about that. About 5 months ago, I was trapped between barriers on the Hardy Toll road, and I didn't have a $1.50 on me to pay my way out (or is the toll up to $40 now?). Well, you know how stressful it is to be on the toll road with no way out, so you can imagine my state of shock. Fortunately, a compassionate soul who had obviously been in my predicament herself at some point took the trouble to pick me up and put me in her car. She tells me that she carried me in her arms for 100 yards, and for that I believe she deserves at least a lifetime supply of milkbones. Now several months later, she saysI am as healthy as can be (before, I was starving and not feeling too hot), and that it is time to find my forever home. As much as I appreciate all she's done for me, I know that she is right, especially when she tells me how my new home will be a place with a big yard for me to romp around in. We both know I just wasn't cut out for townhouse living! In my new home, I hope there will be lots of time for running and walking, fetch and tug, belly rubs, ear rubs, hugs, kisses, and time to meditate over chew bones. I love other dogs and even enjoy walking with other dogs. The only thing I would not want in my new home would have to be a cat...I just can't see being friends with one of those. My foster mom loves me so much that she is willing to be a part of my future even after I get my new family, so in case I ever go to college, she'll help out with tuition! See ya soon! Hardy Hi, I'm Samantha! I'm a 6 year old girl nicely accustomed to the good life inside! I lived with a family for all my years, until the day I woke up from a nap and noticed they and all their belongings were gone! That must have been a long nap, or surely they would have noticed me and brought me along, right? Well, I stayed right where I was; before long some new people showed up with their own belongings, and they were a little surprised to see me. They're nice people, and they have nice dogs as well as a very comfortable sofa. Unfortunately for me, they also have a cat who just can't bear the idea of sharing his humans! I can't really blame him, as they were his first. I'm very affectionate and sweet, and my first family had my front claws removed so I will always and forever need to be an indoor girl. I love napping in a sunny spot, or even on top of the warm clothes dryer. Everyone says I'm a beautiful girl and that I have a very unique coat. Won't you come by and see me soon? Love, Samantha Hi, I'm Max! That's short for Maxwell, if you must know..and it's only fitting for a man in a tux. I'm a two year old fellow with a taste for the finer things in life ( you know, like four walls and a roof over my head) so when I was tossed out on my behind by my owner several months ago, you can imagine my dismay. Unfortunately I was left with no food, no water, and only a filthy old litter pan with which to survive. Did you know there are no Cat Chow trees in Houston? No Iams bushes either? You can see the horrible little area to which I was confined in the pictures below. Eventually, my cries of distress were so alarming that a neighbor from a full block away finally came to my aid and took me in. Now, I'm fully vetted and very healthy. I'm sweet and friendly, and I happily give and receive affection. I like everything on the menu, I love to talk to you when you come into the room, and I'm known for my exceptional powers of persuasion when it comes to people! Come on and see me...I bet I can get you to stick around! Max Hi, I'm Shasta! I'm a seven month old male orange tabby. I was wandering around lonely, cold, and hungry on Christmas afternoon when I met a nice man who took me in, fed me, and got me checked out by a vet. I guess you could say it was a Christmas miracle. I am a healthy and spirited young guy who loves to be petted and to play chase. I am looking for my new forever family, so please come and visit me soon. Love, Shasta   Hi, my name is Simone. I am about 2 years old and up until recently I had a home, but I don’t think it was a very good one. You see, I was adopted when I was a baby from Friends for Life, and I don’t remember much of what happened up until recently when I found myself at some place called BARC. Now WHY would anyone send a kitty to a place named “BARC”. It was so loud and scary there and I was so afraid and lonely. The people at that place were afraid of me so they didn’t even feed me. I heard the man who left me there me say he adopted me from FFL and I don’t know why he didn’t take me back there, but someone at BARC called them and they came to get me. By that time I was so terrified that I didn’t want anyone to touch me. One of their really nice volunteers calmed me down and took me home. I got a really bad cold at the shelter so I was not a fun kitty to be around, I was mad, scared and didn’t feel good. It took a couple of weeks for me to realize that no one was going to hurt me, and even now I am only comfortable with female humans. I have been in my foster home since October and I LOVE it here. My foster mom is so wonderful, but she needs the space to be able to help other kitties and I would really prefer to be an only kitty. I deserve to be loved and cherished and not have to share my human with any other kitties, right? I love to play and I don’t mind if you pick me up to kiss my face, but I would rather sit beside you than in your lap. I like to play with feathers and mice and I REALLY like to get treats of canned kitty food – yum yum. Won’t you open your home and your heart to thisbeautiful, sweet, kitty? With love, Simone           Hi, I'm Mr. Cocoa. I find find myself in the position of needing to find a new family as my current loving family is unable to keep me due to unavoidable changes in their living arrangements. They are very sad to have to be looking for a new home for me, but alas, as Mick has been telling us for about 95 years now, you can't always get what you want. This is what my Mom wrote Friends For Life about me. They tell me that what she wrote is a good insight into what a 'fascinating and unique soul' I am so I'll just pass on her words here: Mr. Cocoa is a handsome Birman who loves a quiet and orderly life. He is a great companion. Wherever you are in your home, he will find you and want to be there…(unless he is napping) . He is fastidious and has never, not ever, made a mess. He will not be obtrusive if you work at your desk, but he will want to check things out before finding a spot to observe or rest. He never played much, even as a kitten, except with bits of crinkly paper. He does have a pet mouse which he keeps in his bed and we find it in the morning in various locations. Mr. Cocoa is a great “watch dog” and always knows when someone is approaching the front door. He also is a loving alarm clock and arrives “from somewhere” at 7:15 each morning to announce that it is time to start the day. He jumps on the bed and is brushed and then is happy to purr contentedly until breakfast. Mr. Cocoa has several locations for his daytime nap and usually rests until after one oclock….he then goes in the kitchen if he is hungry and requests a meal…sometimes he waits until afternoon, but he will always let you know. If you are out for the day, he will meet you at the door with a loving greeting and want to observe and be with you…a home is never empty or lonely with a loving companion and Mr. Cocoa is a treasure. Mr. Cocoa here again. I know you can't always get what you want, but if you try sometimes, you just might find you get what you need. I really need a new loving family. Can you help me with that? Hopefully, Mr. Cocoa Hi, I'm Sara! Have you ever seen that show on National Geographic Channel, with the guy on rollerblades skating with a dog? Well, it just so happens that my most favorite activity on Earth is rollerblading with a human! That and long runs or walks of all kinds. I'm very into the outdoors...and I'm not just saying that for my internet profile, either. I was found abandoned in a bad neighborhood last fall, and since then I've been working hard at learning to be happy and healthy again. The streets of Houston can be pretty rough on a little dog! I'm about 2, and my foster family thinks I will make an excellent watch dog, because I am so alert and responsive. I love affection and attention, and I'm looking forward to life with a very active family! See ya soon! Sara Hi, I'm Howard. I'm a very sweet dog. I know we all say that, but it's really true. My favorite thing to do is to lay out in the sun and work on my tan, interrupted only by the frequent occasions when a human comes by to scratch my belly. I really love going for long walks, which is important because I really like stretching these long legs of mine. I'm very affectionate, and I'm not embarassed to share hugs and kisses with you, even when other dogs are watching! I'm about 2, and when I was rescued last September, I had suffered greatly. My eyes were badly cut, I walked only on three of my legs, and my skin and coat were in a terrible state. After lots of time to recuperate, all of my physical battle scars have healed. Now it's time for me to find a loving family so I can get to work on being the lifelong faithful companion I was meant to be! I haven't had the chance to go to school yet, though I am very smart and training should be a breeze. I am very good in my kennel, and it's where I feel most secure when I have to be all by myself at my foster home. I hope you can come and scractch my belly soon! Howard Hello, I’m Sheba My new name is Sheba. And after you read about me you’ll quickly realize that I’m the PERFECT DOG. Go ahead—keep reading and then come get me! A two and half year-old Husky/German Shepherd/Chow mix, I’m pretty easy to spot. While running loose on March 1st at the intersection of Windfern and Perry in NW Houston, a lady pulled over to the side of road, called out something sweet and soothing, and I ran right over to her. Cautious at first, I let the lady pat my head, then pick me up and put me in her SUV. She took me home and put a body harness on me easily. After a little while I ate food and drank water, showed my savior some tail wagging affection and, after meeting the lady’s two Golden Retrievers, was very, very happy. (To top things off, I later showed them all that I could go potty outside on command!) Please contact Friends for Life for a closer look at me! I’m very calm, friendly and loving. Quiet. (I don’t bark much.) Very playful, I love people who love giving me affection. I get along great with other dogs. I know how to behave on a leash. And I’ll even let you clean my paws without complaint! So what are you waiting for? I’m the perfect dog—available for the perfect owner!!! Love, Sheba!! Hi I'm Stella! My sisters and I were dumped at a Home Depot parking lot a couple of weeks ago. Della & Ella found homes but Stella & I held out, waiting for YOU- or 2 yous- we don't mind being separated. I am about 3 months old & I'm not sure what my heritage is but I think of myself as a miniature St Bernard. Look at this face! Let me rescue you from loneliness. And maybe next winter I can even rescue you from cold toes! I am playful curious little girl. One of my favorite things to do is to play with the cat's toys here at my foster home. Gee- he needs to learn to share! I believe I am good with cats (they may have a different opinion, but what do cats know anyway)? I like kids,and really I like anyone who will give me a good ear scratching. My foster home has an adult dog who has been teaching me how to make the most out of the human dog relationship, and what I have learned is that I have a distinct advantage over the human because I am furry, small, have large brown eyes, and I am very soft. I promise in return for food,water, shelter and daily massage, I will love you unconditionally even on bad hair days. Come see me soon! Love, Stella   I’m King! Not “The King.” Just “King,” thank you very much—although most of my life I’ve felt more like The Fugitive. A rather handsome black and white one-year old neutered male (or so I’ve been told), I always wanted a good home but couldn’t find anyone to take me in. People just didn’t treat me right—until I met this nice lady who talked me into coming home with her. She fed me, gave me a nice bed with a soft blanket (I’d never had a bed or blanket before), and taught me how to eat and drink out of bowls. And slowly but surely I learned what real affection was really like. Soon I was standing on my hind legs to get a pat! And then I wanted a pat even more than a good meal! But my new friend can’t keep me on a permanent basis. Luckily, she is a foster parent with Friends for Life, and now I’m at their PetSmart shelter, making friends and waiting for that perfect someone to take me into their home. Please take me home and I’ll wait at the door for you each and every evening. I’ll follow you around and tell you what you want to hear. I come when called and know my name. Not crazy about dogs--but I do like the top of my head scratched, being brushed and getting frequent tummy rubs. Yours truly, King Hi, We're Sid and Nancy! We are 12 week old Black Lab and Terrier mix puppies, and boy are we ever cute! Just look at us posing in these flower beds. We were found abandoned at a construction site recently, and at the time, we suffered from malnutrition and mange. Since a nice family rescued us, we've become healthy happy babies. Our foster family has a full house with more humans on the way, so they are helping us find our forever homes. We love each other, but we're the kind of siblings who don't have to live together to be happy (as long as we can have the occasional video chat)! Hope to play with you soon! Hi, I'm Merlin. Though I'm legendary for fitting on almost any lap, there is one place I can no longer fit—my home of 10 years. That’s right, this large, handsome, loving 10-year old neutered male with great gray and white markings—not to mention a wonderful temperament and a shameless reputation as a lap cat—has had to leave home for good (and a good home it was for an American shorthair rescued at age one from the SPCA). See, my family has a new baby. And while I’m great with little kids and their not-so-little noises and banging toys, this latest addition to the family has turned out to be very, very allergic to cats. Yes, it was a tough decision for my family to give me up for adoption. And, quite frankly, it was heartbreaking for me.While the fantastic people here at Friends for Life are always letting me snooze in their laps, it just isn’t the same as the old days. So now I’m searching for a family that wants an indoor cat who will let me play with strings, chase bugs and then snooze in a patch of sunlight. I’m up to date on my shots. And I promise to greet you at the door when you stumble in after a tough day at work. And my name? It’s said I was named after the magician Merlin—you know, the guy who could make the Round Table spin. But my magic really comes from the soothing effect I have on people who let me onto their laps, or the foot of their beds. Please consider taking home this generous armful of grey and white magic! Yours truly, Merlin FYI, you might need a tissue for my story. Tossed out of a car and onto a driveway when I was just a newborn, I didn’t even have my eyes open yet to see how cruel the world can be. Luckily, good fortune sometimes follows bad and I was picked up out of the drive by a nice lady. She tried to bottle feed me, and when that didn’t work, somehow found me a nursing mother! After living with her and the other homeless cats she had taken in, I developed a healthy appetite, and blossomed into the beautiful young lady I am today. Unluckily, sometimes bad fortune follows good fortune, and I've just lost my old home because my mistress got sick, lost her job and could no longer care of me and my friends. I'm a sweet, shy girl who can always use a kind pat, a cuddle, and the comfort of a soft voice telling me how pretty I am. I'll do best in a serene environment where I can have plenty of attention and affection. I'm just a year old, so I have plenty of kitten left in me, just waiting for a safe and accepting enviroment to show off in! See you soon? Molly Hi, I'm Shorty! I'm a funny young guy (under one year) with a fantastic personality and the ability to get along with everybody! I usually like to break the ice with a little joke, so here goes...Did you hear about the cowboy who got himself a dachshund? Everyone kept telling him to get a long, little doggie. Ha! Anyways, I was recently found racing around alone in a residential complex with a broken rope hanging from my neck. Presumably, I had escaped from some kind of captivity, tied up in a backyard or worse. After some time, I was able to become friends with a human who lived there, and she allowed me to make myself right at home with her, especially after I let her know that I was crate trained and house trained. She explained from the beginning that she would foster me and help me to find a new, permanent home,. In the meantime, I enjoy every minute of every day, as long as I get to play with squeeky cat toys, go for walks, spend time with other dogs, and engage in some good old fashioned fetch. I'm super healthy and the perfect size for a variety of enviroments. Hoping to meet you soon... Shorty Hi, we're August and Ash! August is the background and I'm in the front. August is my big brother, or I'm his little sister depending upon which one of us you ask! He weighs 17 pounds and I only weigh 8, even though we're the same age. We've been attached at the paw since birth...we're best friends, which as I understand it is rare with siblings. We like nothing more than a good game of toss and tumble followed by a long nap in the sunlight together. Our foster mom says we talk a lot too, but I don't think she really minds. We also can't stand to turn off our purr motors, so we have trouble sneaking up on anyone. Our favorite toys are laser lights and feathers, and bringing us into your home practically guarantees you a lifetime of joy and laughter. You should know that August and I are a package deal, but even though we're so closewith each other we won't leave you to play by yourself. We love to interact with people, and we can't wait to meet you! Love, August & Ash   Hi, I'm Derby! A happy, healthy male Siamese mix, I confess to a weakness for lounging in the sun, and sneaking the occasional peek in the mirror. I am very affectionate, especially if you turn on one of my favorite TV programs and we can snuggle up together. My favorite shows? You keep flipping and I’ll meow when a good one comes up... just don’t stop for any program that has a character named Dawg, Lassie,or Rin Tin Tin! Recently, I found myself without a home after my owner became quite ill. I had lived with my family since I was just 5 weeks old...now I'm 12! I know, I know...you're wondering how I've managed to keep my incredibly youthful appearance...we can talk about that after we know each other a little better. So what do you say...won’t you give this cat a home? Litter box trained and proven to be a terrific one-pet-family cat, all I need is YOU! Waiting patiently... Derby Hi, I'm Boomer! If you investigate the breed standards for Shar Pei (which I am in large part) you will note the phrase "hippopotamus head." C'mon. I know it's large, but hippo-sized? In any case, you might also note some traits such as dignified, independent, and confident; I like those much better than hippo-headed. I'm five years old and also part Lab. Everyone already knows all about how fantastic Labs are, what with our gentle natures, helpful attitudes, and the part about us being the number 1 dog breed in the world (yeah that's right, the world) so I won't waste too much time belaboring that point. I've come to FFL after one of those divorce thingies left my family unable to care for me anymore. Right now I live in a foster home with five cats and one other dog, and I enjoy all of their company. I'm looking for a familywith plenty of action and a sincere interest in having a four-legged family member who can join in all the family fun. See ya soon! Boomer Hi, I'm Tyler! I’m a big orange and white medium haired fellow who loves head scratches, and I'm very playful and affectionate. I also have a nice “speaking” voice which makes me pretty fun to have around at dinner parties, if you're into that sort of thing. But the story of how I ended up here at Friends for Life is a real heartbreaker. I'd had the same owners since I was three months old...I'm 14 years now, so that's roughly 5000 days I was a part of my first family (but who's counting). Sadly, one of my owners became ill with emphysema, and had to relinquish all the pets in the house for obvious health reasons. Intellectually, I recognize the validity of this, but emotionally I was crushed at the thought of starting over. After all, I'd worked hard all of those years training my people...they knew just what kind of food I really loved, just where on my tummy to scratch, just how much to leave the curtains open so I could watch the birds but not have any of my cat naps disturbed by too much light or breeze. You get the idea. Anyways, what I need now is a new great home that I won’t have to leave for reasons beyond my control. Maybe we can begin this journey together? Hopefully yours, Tyler Hi, I'm Snuglio! Yep, you're saying it right..."snuggly - oh." You're going to find this hard to believe, but I earned the name as a result of my propensity to snuggle. That makes me a unique Torti on two counts...first, because I have an outstanding vocabulary, and second because I will always initiate affection! My foster family describes me as loving, mischevious, assertive, and imaginative, and I am certified "kid-friendly" by the neighborhood children. I'm about seven months old, and I've had all of my kitten shots and other assorted veterinary needs well taken care of. I have lots of cats and kitten friends and get along terrifically with everybody! I hope to meet you soon! Love, Snuglio     Hi, I'm Annie and the one looking out the window is my sister Sally. We are Leo sisters born last August and abandoned from birth on someone's front porch. We were scooped up into foster care immediately, and have subsequently had the best care kittens could want! We've had the full course of kitten shots, including rabies vaccination, are FELV/FIV negative, we've been spayed. Our foster family has included lots of other cats and people, and we've learned the important life lessons that even a kindergartener should know... play nice, share, play a lot, you've got to give hugs & kisses to get hugs & kisses etc. We have the Oriental breed in our bloodline, and you can see evidence of that in our coloring and long slender bodies as well as in our extraordinarily affectionate natures. Since we've been together for all of our lives, we'd love to find a forever home together. Come to see us at the Petsmart on Saturdays during adoption hours! Love, Annie and Sally Hi, I'm Astro! Can you see me looking upwards toward the stars? You never know what I'm up to... I could be reading a horoscope (ASTROlogy) or finding the Big Dipper (ASTROnomy) or pretending I just paid 20 million to get a ride on the space shuttle (ASTROnaut). Most likely though, I'm imagining my new home with you (ASTROlapcat). I'm a bit over a year old, and as you can see I'm like the Brooks Brothers of cats...classic Grey Tabby, soft short hair, golden eyes, and a perfectly pink nose. I'll never go out of style, just like the penny loafer or the Oxford shirt. I came to FFL after the family I belonged to discovered they had differing opinions about how I should be cared for.One felt I should be inside enhancing the family activities with my enjoyable cat characteristics; the other felt I belonged outside with the trash ( you can imagine which I preferred). Ultimately, they at least agreed that a better home could be found for me, and that is how I've come to be available to you! I'm a friendly, quiet guy who enjoys a great cuddle, a little toy action, and the occasional session with my scratching post. Come and see me soon! Love, Astro Hi there, I’m Orlando, Just like my Shakespearean namesake, I am a guy who has had near death scrapes and is totally ruled by love. Ok, my true love didn’t dress up like a boy and surprise me in the forest. But here’s what did happen: My family moved out and left me, I lived under the porch quite a while hoping they’d come back and the neighborhood cats beat me up really badly (I’m a lover not a fighter). Then, it was like magic—a kind lady rescued me, treated my wounds and gave me wonderful food. It was non-stop pats and belly rubs! I’m two years old and fully vetted. I used to have a family. That’s where I picked up my excellent litter box andscratching post manners. I really tried hard to be a good cat to them. I’m not sure why they left me. But I think all happens for the best and now I have a chance to find a family that will truly be mine for life! I like those belly rubs, human laps, small snuggly spaces, canned food and toy mice. But I’m not much for heights, Alpha cats and big dogs. (True for many people as well, I hear.) When I first arrived at FFL, I was a bit shy (being left behind can shake a guy’s confidence a bit). But I’m not shy anymore, and I’m particularly not shy about one thing: If I had it “as I’d like it” I’d be snuggled up with you right now! Love, Orlando Hi, We are Toby and Sophie! You'll read all about us in our individual bios below, but we wanted to share our cat match dot com story first! Though we each arrived at FFL in our own unique ways, we've become bonded and in fact, utterly inseparable. The volunteers here say they've never seen anything like it...we are now looking for a home that will have us both, because we make such a wonderful pair. To put it like Jerry McGuire would have, "she had me at meow..."             Hi there, I’m Toby! You know the saying "still waters run deep?" It means that cats who may seem shy or quiet can really turn out to be the most interesting cats of all. Another way to put it is that good things come in small, quiet, four-legged orange fur packages. Of course, I’m still a young boy of just six months, so my personality continues to blossom...and of course I come from a pretty odd family where life was lived on the run, regular meals were few and far between, and survival was priority one. You see, I’m a kitty from the third known litter of a wild, uncatchable neighborhood momma. Rescued as a tiny kitten, there’s absolutely nothing wild about me, and I've discovered the benefits of human companionship and attention! A classic orange tabby, I know that being orange is special (I’ll bet I hear that ten times a day from my caregivers). But I just need to find somebody with a waiting home who feels the same way! While what I really do like to play, I enjoy the chance to get to know someone a bit before we get busy with the feather toys. A home of my own would be a big help, with a special somebody who would love, love, love to LOVE ME! Toby Hi, I’m Sophie! A year and a half old, I’m a female Maine Coon-tabby mix who’s ready to mix in with a loving family. I was a stray who had a home, but was abandoned and left on my own. Of course, I headed for the first nice backyard I could find and, lo and behold, a nice lady (who was my wonderful foster mother) took me in,took me to the vet and would have kept me forever except that she already had too many other cats. So she asked Friends for Life to adopt me and find me a cozy home. Healthy as can be, I’m quiet, a little shy, but extremely affectionate. For a mostly Maine Coon, I’m not very big. But I do have a great speaking voice, and a big tail that I like to thump! Would somebody please, please PLEASE give me a home? I’llnever leave you. I’ll make up stories about my former life in the Maine woods (isn’t Maine right next to Alaska?), and I'll make a perfect cat-shaped indentation right on your lap because of the hours we'll spend cuddling together! Love, Sophie   Let’s Play! I’m Ralph. There’s little doubt that I’m the most playful cat Friends for Life has ever taken in. About 3 years old and neutered (all the best guys are!), I’m one of those irresistible white and black “tuxedo cats.” You know, the ones that are always all dressedup and looking for a party to crash? But I am working on my gentler side. I wasn’t always so playful. Being abandoned is a serious buzzkill. But now that I’m safe after first being taken in by my wonderful foster parents and given a berth at Friends for Life, I have plenty of loving attention and plenty of time to roam. I even have a new best friend,Templeton, the resident pet rat who lives with all us cats (really!). I love to sit on Templeton’s cage and bat his paws while he bats mine. But when Templeton gets a little rough (he loves to nibble tender cat foot pads), I hop down for some R&R with my many FFL caregivers. Yes, I know how to use a litter box! I’m super healthy , I've had all my shots, and I have a spectacular appetite! To quote some of the humans I hang with at FFL, I eat like a horse! Maybe we can enter a pie eating contest together someday. All manner of canned and dry foods are my favorites, with fish and IAMS dry my favorite favorites, and of course, pie being close to Nirvana. I know that it’s not always play time, and I really do cherish a good pat and a warmlap. Described as lovable and sweet, I’d make a perfect “only” cat (as long as you play with me now and again), but I’d also like to hang out with another cat who likes to play, and isn’t afraid of a little rough and tumble. Please consider taking home a guy who’s all dressed up and ready to go. I’m yours!!   Hi, I'm Daisy! I was found just before Thanksgiving, wandering around the office parking lot of the woman who turned out to be my foster mom of the past few months! So, I may not be able to recite the whole Thanksgiving tale all the way back to John Smith, Pocahantas, cornbread and cranberries, but I assure you I fully understand the importance of carrying thanks in your heart at all times, and next November I promise to help you with your turkey! It's hard for me to tell anyone all the details of my life BLK (that's Before Lori and Keith, my foster parents) what with the language barrier, butALK (that's After Lori and Keith, in case you're slow) information abounds. I'm a young girl, somewhere around a year, and I have a lot of puppy in me! I'm energetic and affectionate, and I love all the dogs in my foster family. In fact, I love all dogs...but not so much cats. Don't tell anyone, but cats scare me. They're so secretive, and always sneaking up on you! I am learning things like sit, stay, and come, and7 proving to be very smart and trainable. I am also growing accustomed to snuggling up under the covers on cold winter nights, which hopefully my new family won't mind! Hope to meet you soon... Love, Daisy Hello, I'm Rocky! You know, as in "it's been a rocky road". I'm a two year old male who was abandoned by my family. One day they up and moved away and left me behind. A nice neighborlady fed me and looked after me but I was not meant to be outdoorsand got picked on by all the other males. Things were starting to get pretty rough for me when she finally contacted Friends for Life and secured me a safe place to call home while I wait for my new forever family. I am a total lap kitty, and I will make your house a happier one with my very sweet nature and loving personality! Please come and visit me very soon...With love, Rocky Hey there—I’m Paco! I’m a classic gray tabby boy, and boy do I love a good pat! Just call my name and I’m there! Really! Ask me if I want a treat and I’ll talk and talk and talk! And play—hey, feather toys and milk top rings are my fav, so you can save on gifts! I was originally found in an abandoned apartment as a barely two-month-old kitten. But then I came to FFL, and soon was adopted to a terrific home, where I lived happily for nearly two years. Unfortunately, the nice lady who adopted me had to move overseas and couldn’t take me with her. This made her very sad. She wanted to make sure I found a good new home, so she asked FFL to help out one more time…As you might be able to tell from my picture, and my long, lean body and narrow head, I have a touch of Abyssinian in me. Like most Abyssinians I’m pretty smart (if I say so myself) and quite outgoing. I like to be in charge, so would probably be happiest in a house where I can be top cat (or, as some of the other cats in the adoption center would have it, where I can THINK I’m top cat). I’m pretty active and playful, but don’t mind pausing for a bit to get a little petting. Drop by the Adoption Center, and I’ll gladly pause for you. Paco Hi, I'm Canelo! I'm a 2 yr old male Shepherd Terrier mix, looking for a great new home. See, literally that is a picture of me looking for you! I was living in a park all alone when I wandered onto my foster mom's porch. At that time I was extremely underweight, hungry and frightened... when she offeredme a meal I knew I had found a good thing. I have been living with her for a several months now and I am now a very healthy and happy young man! All I need now is to meet my new forever family. Please come and visit me soon! Love, Canelo   Check out my video here!   Hi, We are Romeo and Callie! We are an 8 month old brother and sister who were rescued with our mom from a feral colony (where we MOST certainly did not belong)! We are very well socialized...we love people and other cats, we love to play with toys and to snuggle up in warm lap for a good head or tummy rub. If our future home had a golf enthusiast in it, all the better, because Romeo loves nothing more than chasing golf balls around the room and yelling out "FORE." We are not necessarily looking to be adopted into the same family, although of course that would be fine! love, Romeo and Callie Hi, I'm Shatzi! Wanted: Active young family willing to let their new dog help make the weekly grocery list, to include the following: peanut butter, non-fat cottage cheese, and carrots. I know, why the non-fat cottage cheese along with the highly fattening peanut butter? It's like those silly people who order a diet soda to go with their buttery popcorn at the movies ( but I'm getting away from my original point, as usual). My original point was that I'm a wonderful young adult Spaniel/Dalmation mix who lost his home somehow, and is now in search of a new and better one! I'm a cuddler, a toy enthusiast, and the type of guy who quite literally brings his own leash to the door when it is time for a walk! I'm also a little like that kid from Peanuts, in that I often drag my special blanky around with me. My only other criteria for my new family? Please no cats. See ya soon! Shatzi   Watch my movie here! Hi, I'm Petey! Have you ever heard the idea that it is sometimes necessary to reach rock bottom before a meaningful and fulfilling life can be achieved? You may or may not concur, but in my recent experience, things could not have been any worse and now they almost couldn't be any better (this will be where you come in). Some of the story I'm about to share with you has been retold to me by my rescuers...I was too sick to remember most of it. So here goes...I was living on the streets in a Houston neighborhood, biding my time on the front porches of unoccupied homes as a source of shelter. There were some people who made sure I had food, but they tell me now that when they tried to bring me home with them, I ran away every time. They say that over the course of the three months they were watching me, I became thinner and thinner, lost my hair, and eventually became too weak to move. I had given up on life, most likely, because life as I knew it was just too hard. Finally, one night after I was sure I had laid down for the last time, something changed my mind and I followed those people home after they brought me a clean bed and some food (would you believe that night turned out to be Christmas?). At the vet, they said I was thirty pounds underweight and afflicted with several painful conditions which you can see in my before picture above. Now a year later, I am a different guy entirely. I've been in the care of some amazing dog foster parents who specialize in helping dogs who've had the worst of times. Even though I had never lived inside before, it turns out I have a taste for the indoor life! I never bark, I never chew on things, and I don't mind snuggling up in my crate for a snooze anytime. I love to go for walks and rides in the car, and I'm hoping I'll meet a family with at least one jogger in it. I lounge on my special chaise by the window for hours, and my foster mom describes me as the most easy-going, flexible dog she's known. My only complaints in life now are these...I don't like bathtime and I don't like cats too much. I will probably be best in a one animal family!Anyways, see ya soon! Petey   Hi, I'm Candy...Cane that is. Don't you like my sweater? I'm thinking that maybe you can get a matching one, and when we go to the dog park or even over to Barnaby's for lunch on Sundays, we'll make everone jealous. You knew that Barnaby's was among the dog-friendly dining spots in Houston, right? And speaking of friendly dogs, let me tell you about myself! I got my name because I'm so sweet (I know, cliche)...I was found homeless in the Heights area. Several people in the neighborhood kept their eyes on me and sometimes left food out, but no one ever opened up the front door to invite me in, so I kept on wandering. I even adopted my own homeless pet...a little beagle puppy much worse off than myself, whom I made certain to keep safe as we went about the business of survival. Finally,we met someone who took us in. At the foster home, I've been living with lots of big dogs, little kids, and I love just about everyone and everything! Here's a small sample of what it's like to hang around with me. Foster mom: "Want to go for a walk, Candi?" Me: "Sure!Yes, Please!" Foster mom:"Want to go for a ride in the car, Candi?" Me: "Yep yep yep!" Foster mom: "Sit, Candi." Me: "Sure, you bet!" Foster mom: "Come, Candi." Me: Sure, how fast? Foster mom:"Jump, Candi." Me:"Sure, how high?" You get the idea! I really do know all those commands, plus the added bonus command of kisses on demand. I'm only two years old,and the American Bulldog in me guarantees a wealth of intelligence and compatibility with all kinds of environments and personalities. I can't wait to see you soon! Love, Candy Cane       Check out my video here!     Hi, I'm Miss Mouse ( I'm the gray one). Let's see, what can I tell you about myself...I'm an Aries, very intelligent, curious, exploratory, a bit independent, and neither bossy nor shy. I've been described as elegant, also. I was born last April, and I've just passed my 7 month birthday. Right now I live with a very large cat foster family, and I get along with all of them quite nicely (I was rescued from a feral cat colony as a tiny kitten) so I've gotten used to making friends with all kinds. I love to help my foster-mom work on her computer! I'm looking for a home where I'll get plenty of personalized attention, and also where I'll be welcome to sleep on your bed! You can meet me on Saturdays during adoption hours. Love, Miss Mouse Hi, I'm Punky Brewster! I'm a young lady of about 1.5 years, with one of the most laid-back demeanors you'll ever find in a Tortie! I've been with Friends for Life since kittenhood, when I was rescued with four of my sisters (who have since successfully found homes). I'm right at home at the Friends for Life adoption center now, and watch the comings and goings with great interest. There are three things I love more that anything else in the world. Number 1...moist cat treats (c'mon, I have to be picky about something). Number 2...toys with feathers on them ( it must be instinct, because I've never even seen a bird). And number 3...my many cat friends! I just love cats, don't you? Anyway, since I moved in here (at FFL that is) I've been a happy girl and I've learned that I need a home with other cats to be the best Punky Brewster that I can be. I don't mind dogs either, by the way. Come by and see me soon! Love, Punky B.   Hi, I'm Dwight! If it looks like I'm wearing a giant clown costume, don't worry--I'm not. I do have a pretty silly personality though, and I'll talk your ear off if you get anywhere near me. I just happen to have a lot to say, allright? After 5 years in the world, a guy's had the chance to see some things and experience some things, and maybe he just wants to discuss them! I used to live in a nice comfy house with some people I thought really loved me. Then one day, they locked me outside and left, for good. A nice neighbor lady kept on checking up on me and feeding me ( for three years in fact, which means if you're a math whiz you can calculate that I was abandoned at age 2, basically as a baby) until finally she noticed that I really wasn't thriving on the outside. Now I'm hooked up with FFL, and have made myself quite comfortable, as you can see. I'm healthy, happy, and well-behaved, and I will be a great addition toany bustling household where excitement is a part of the daily routine! See ya soon! Dwight   Hi, I'm Madonna! Excuse me, but I'm still licking the remains of some delicious friedchicken off my nose. See, I wasrescued from aChurch's parking lot, and boy is that stuff addictive! So, I'm about a year old and despite my ravenous appetite for greasy foods, I'm a delicate, sweet tempered, pretty-as-can-be little girl. I'm quiet and easy-going, and I'll make someone a spectacular companion. I've had my girlie surgery, and my vaccinations of course. They say I am a very special girl who needs a veryspecial home...maybe yours? I'm eagerly awaiting your visit... Love, Madonna             Salutations, I'm Templeton. Okay, let's just get a few things cleared up right away. Yes, I've seen Charlotte's Web, as have the volunteers around this place, obviously. Yes, I sound just like Steve Buscemi. Yes, I've been known to hoard food, but never anything so disgusting as a rotten egg (something my namesake was known to do). No, I've never been in a barn, shared my meals with livestock, or written poetry with a spider. I was brought to Friends for Life as an 8 month old rat after the family I belonged to decided I wasn't compatible with their lifestyle. Since then, it's been brought to my attention that many people don't know much about rats. For instance, we are the most intelligent of the rodent species,we are highly social and affectionate, and we require lots and lots of daily activity and stimulation! We are not successful rats when we are left alone in little cages all day, and some researchers might even say that it is possible for a rat to die of loneliness ( I use the term researcher loosely here). Rats are more likely to make better pets for people when they have rat roommates, just like all animals with a social nature. Maybe you are reading this right now and thinking "Gee, Templeton would make the perfect companion for _______________, the pet rat who is currently living alone in a little cage inside my house! " Presently, I have lots of cat buddies at Friends for Life, which simply goes to show you that friendship can come in all kinds of packaging. We usually just socialize through my cage, sharing secrets and sunflower seeds. My favorite part of every day is the magical moment when someone hands me a strawberry yogurt chip! I will need a family who will give me time and space to get to know them asit takes me awhile to trust new people, butbecause I am such a bright and handsome guy, it will be well worth the wait. Come on over and feed me sometime! Regards,Templeton       Need help with an animal? Contact us and tell us what you need -- training, advice, help with care/feeding, boarding, foster care and we'll do everything we can to help. Exhausted every avenue and want to place an animal for adoption? Fill out our online intake form and be sure to give a number where our staff can reach you.