ASPCA Happy Tails: Just What the Doctor Ordered

Sometimes the key to our hearts lies in the most unexpected places. Ruth and Tom Reinecke of Queens, NY, found theirs in a middle-aged cat with a funny grin and special needs. Back in the summer of 2007, Lilly was a favorite of ASPCA adoptions staff and volunteers. Sweet and shy, she was a perfect candidate for anyone looking for a mellow lap cat. But one thing deterred potential pet parents: Lovely Lilly had tested positive for the feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), which can seriously weaken a cat's immune system.

The Reineckes, however, were not put off by Lilly's medical status. "We were entranced by the funny way she stuck out her tongue," Ruth says, laughing. And her winning personality helped her score the kind of forever home of which many kitties dream. The Reineckes understood that Lilly's FIV status didn't mean she would necessarily get sick or show symptoms for years. With the right care and compassion, FIV-positive cats can enjoy happy, healthy lives.

"At more than five years old now, Lilly has not been sick," Ruth reports. "In fact, she's been very active and glad to have more room to scamper and play. She does the cutest hops!"

Ever the bouncing social bee, Lilly never met a person—or a belly scratcher—she didn't adore. "She still loves her tummy rubs and believes all visitors have come just to pet her," says Ruth. "This may be so—our friends and family barely say hello before asking, 'Where is Lilly?'" Nonetheless, she still reserves her special "nose kisses" for Ruth and Tom.

"Our sweet girl came to us with a heart full of love," says Ruth. "Many thanks to the staff and volunteers at the ASPCA for our darling Lilly."

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