If you have lived in Denver for more than a few months you are surely familiar with the infamous Dumb Friends League. They are the largest animal welfare organization in the Rocky Mountain region, welcoming tens of thousands animals to their two shelters. For over 100 years they have provided humane care to lost and abandoned animals. In addition they rescue sick, injured and abused animals, adopt pets to new homes, help pets stay in homes, and educate pet owners and the public about the needs of companion animals. There is a myriad of heart-felt stories about the placement of animals into loving homes. Below is a unique tale of an unlikely duo that befriended each other and their new owner.
Cat and Mouse Game
Bailey and Izzy are best friends. They took to each other like peanut butter and jelly, or milk and cookies. Or a rat and a kitten? That’s right. These two gave up the endless game of cat and mouse and are as close as can be.
Bailey was found alone downtown when she was a kitten. The family who found her already had a number of animals, including a 2-year-old rat named Izzy. Bailey got along well with the other pets, but she and Izzy formed a special bond. The family could not keep Bailey themselves, so they brought her to the Dumb Friends League. They decided to give up Izzy as well, hoping the two would be adopted together.
Ruth Carney was on the lookout for a new cat after her own, Cooper, went missing.
“I was literally going to various shelters on a daily basis,” Carney said. “I walked into the Dumb Friends League, saw Bailey, and I fell in love. I put my finger on the glass, and she responded instantly.”
Carney decided to take Bailey home, and she was told about Bailey’s friend, Izzy. She said she was surprised, but she was happy to add a rat to the family. Carney already had two dogs, and all four animals get along. The two new pets seem to be the perfect additions to their home.
Carney made a home for Izzy in a large birdcage, which Bailey loves to climb inside. She set up different toys inside the cage and calls it the Swiss Family Robinson tree house. The pair also enjoys running and playing together when Izzy is in her large blue exercise ball.
“Izzy loves to sit on your shoulder and watch TV,” Carney said. “Bailey runs the house now, but the pets are all the best of friends.”
“We love the new additions to our family, and we love the Dumb Friends League. We appreciate all that you do to assist animals that cannot assist themselves.”
The Dumb Friends League has many cats, dog, and other small pets available for adoption. If you are interested in making a cuddly addition to your family, view our adoptable pets online, visit one of our two shelter locations or call (303) 751-5772 for more information. www.ddfl.org
