The Impact of Second Chances: Patches’ Story

Giving animals a second chance offers the community a unique opportunity to support animal welfare, build meaningful human-animal bonds, and create a more humane world. Many animals are often overlooked for a variety of reasons, causing them to spend extended periods of time in shelters waiting for a loving home. By recognizing their worth and opening our hearts, we not only change their lives, but also enrich our own.

This was certainly the case for one of our cats in need of a second chance, Patches.

Patches was a domestic longhaired, white and brown tabby feline friend who was surrendered to Calgary Humane Society as a young cat for back in the later months of 2008. True to his name, he had large brown patches—one covering his head and ears, another heart-shaped patch on his side, and one under his nose resembling a moustache. These unique markings were paired with the fluffiest white coat and brightest green eyes.

After being brought to Calgary Humane Society, Patches immediately underwent routine medical care, ensuring he was in good health and that his vaccines were up-to-date. After twelve days, Patches was moved to the adoptions floor and ready to find his forever home.

Despite his captivating appearance and charming personality, Patches remained at the shelter longer than anyone expected. Still, Patches waited patiently for his future family and hope was not lost.

On Sunday, September 28th, 2008, two very special people came into the shelter with the intention of adopting a cat.

Patches was not their first pick. One of the adopters felt certain that, given his striking looks and friendly nature, Patches had no shortage of interest and would be adopted soon. Their priority was to give a second chance to a cat who might otherwise be overlooked. But when the CHS employee informed them that Patches was that cat—the one waiting, the one needing a second chance—they knew. He was the one.

And just like that, Patches was welcomed into his forever home.

They decided to keep his name but also opted to use nicknames: Patchy McGee, Patchy, Patches O’Hooughligan—the list seemed endless. Patches spent the next seventeen years as an incredible companion. In his home, Patches grew to be the most loving and affectionate friend, getting along with other animals and helping his family through the loss of two cats and two dogs. He came when called, purred when brushed, and loved with his whole heart. Patches was always the first to welcome guests into his home the same way that he once was (though this would end with him convincing them to turn the bathtub tap on for him to drink from). Even people who didn’t like cats were enchanted by him and often found themselves wanting to adopt cats of their own. If you loved Patches, Patches most certainly loved you.

As years passed, Patches’ family began to notice differences with his health. They began attending routine check-ups with his vet, where he received regular senior wellness panels, treatment for IBS, and arthritis injections in his later years. Throughout all of this, Patches personality never changed and he remained the charming friend he was when he was first brought home.

After seventeen years of living his second chance, his family knew it was time. On June 11th, 2025, Patches crossed the rainbow bridge. Patches remained his loving and beautiful self right until the end.

Patches was an animal in need who was given the opportunity to live a second chance, and in return, he gave seventeen years of love, comfort, and unwavering companionship. Patches will be deeply missed, but his memory will forever remain a testament that giving animals in need a second chance helps create a more humane world.

Giving an animal in need a second chance has great impact on not only the animal, but also the human. Much like Patches, giving an animal a second chance can result in the most rewarding reciprocal bond. Giving second chances provides the opportunity for humans to create a lifelong bond with animals and communities to create a more humane world.