When Hurricane Helene swept across the east coast, it wasn’t just the people who were affected. Many pets in the region were already in shelters when the storms hit, and with conditions worsening, the need for emergency relocations grew urgent. Shelters had to make space for pets who were separated from their families during the storms and flooding. And so, last month, more than 40 pets in total made the journey to Connecticut from natural disaster zones thanks to coordinated efforts between the Connecticut Humane Society and the BISSELL Pet Foundation.

Beamer, Pinky, and Luca—three tiny, two-month-old kittens—were among those who needed a safe place to land. Arriving in Connecticut was a big change for these three little kittens. They were shy at first, taking in their new environment slowly. The long trip, new faces, and unfamiliar surroundings made the kittens a bit wary.

Luckily for the three of them, CHS staff were gentle and patient, and after a few days of their kindness, the kittens began to settle in. They were able to get essential medical care, as all pets do when they arrive, including spay and neuter surgeries, age-appropriate vaccinations, and comprehensive assessments from the behavior team to make sure these kittens would find the right homes and get off on the right foot there. With everything that had happened to them in their long few months of life so far, Beamer and Luca were a bit more cautious and sensitive than other kittens at their age. (Their brother, Pinky, didn’t have the same reservations, and was deemed the wild child!) But with patient care, they blossomed, learning to trust again and enjoy the comforts of life in Connecticut.

Now, all three kittens are thriving in their new homes, bringing joy and companionship to the families who opened their doors to them. For Beamer, Pinky, and Luca, their journey from storm-ravaged North Carolina to the warmth of their new homes goes to show how much a little love can go a long way. Thanks to CHS supporters, these kittens have found their way home, and the rest of the pets who arrived are excited to do so too!