This story was originally shared on The Animal Rescue Site. Submit your own rescue story here. Your story just might be the next to be featured on our blog!

We went through an excruciating time when we lost 3 of our beloved pets to 3 different causes in the space of about 2 months. We first lost our 9 year old dog, who was more like a little brother than a pet to my two girls, to cancer unexpectedly.

Photo: Jennifer Johnson

The family suffered three devastating pet losses in two months.

Not only were we devastated but our 3 year old lab mix was obviously depressed and we didn't know how to help her.

We thought getting a young cat to play with our remaining dog and cat would help all of us, so we went down to PetSmart where they have adoptable cats from local rescues. They had a big litter of all black kittens, all boys except one quiet little girl.

I had never had a black cat and I was completely smitten with how perfect she is. We named her Shady and she immediately fell in love with our remaining dog, Cali.

Photo: Jennifer Johnson

Their young lab mix showed signs of depression after losing her companion.

Unfortunately Cali passed away soon after that, and we were so glad to have our Shady girl for comfort.

Shady has grown into a more reserved cat, and I was honestly struggling with that as I have always had very affectionate cats. She doesn't enjoy snuggles, pets or being held very much, and I was pining for a cat to snuggle.

The only thing to do was go back to PetSmart and get second cat, Toby! 

Photo: Jennifer Johnson

Shady became a more reserved, independent cat as she grew.

He is our big beautiful fluffy boy and gallantly takes on the chore of snuggling the humans so Shady won't have to. Shady and Toby aren't best friends yet, but they get along well and I hope one day they will share a close bond.

Story submitted by Jennifer Johnson

This story was originally shared on The Animal Rescue Site. Share your very own rescue story here!