A Nationwide Event Helps Our Overlooked Pets

Oct 08, 2021

This year, Clear the Shelters took place August 23–September 19 and PAWS Chicago joined the campaign by waiving adoption fees for the overlooked dogs and cats in our care, aka Underdogs and Comeback Kitties.

Underdogs and Comeback Kitties need just a little extra from their adopters to truly thrive. Some have medical concerns, would do best with continued training, or need a special home environment. It’s not for everyone, but it’s also so worth it when you see how bright they shine with the help of your love and understanding.

During our 2021 Clear the Shelters initiative, 49 overlooked pets found their perfect match and are now blossoming into their best selves. While the event may be over, tons of Underdogs and Comeback Kitties are still searching for their person—maybe it’s you!

For people who want to make sure they’re a perfect match for an Underdog or Comeback Kitty, our Foster First Program is a great way to get to know each other while receiving the support of our PAWS Chicago team. 

Janet and Jazzy were surrendered to Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC) in March. They lived together most of their lives, and their owner was distraught about giving them up but could not take them as he moved out of the country. Both about seven years old and in need of medical care, PAWS Chicago took them under our wing.

Janet suffered from mammary masses, glaucoma, and frequent ear infections, and Jazzy was dealing with severe dental disease. At PAWS Medical Center, Janet underwent surgeries to remove her mammary masses as well as her right eye because it was causing unnecessary pain. Jazzy had 10 tooth extractions.

After healing from their procedures, Underdogs Janet and Jazzy were finally adopted together during Clear the Shelters. Once overlooked because of their medical background, this couple of curly-haired cuties finally found their match in Ashley Callen and we couldn’t be happier for them.

Hampton was found as a stray by PAWS Volunteer Services Coordinator Katie Cozzens. He was microchipped and Katie reached out to his previous owner, but they didn’t want to rehome him.

PAWS welcomed Hampton with opened arms and set to work finding him a perfect match. Hampton had his quirks, though. An escape artist capable of chewing threw any screen door or window, he needed a patient adopter with a kid-free home who was willing to give him lots of active playtime.  

It didn’t happen overnight, but we never lost hope and Comeback Kitty Hampton was paired with his perfect person during Clear the Shelters. This clever orange boy is now happily thriving with adoptive parent Zebedee Miller.