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A bow on a box makes for a heart-melting reveal, but what happens after the wrapping paper is gone? We sit down with longtime adoption coordinator Jerri Clay Hays to unpack the real work of turning a holiday surprise into a lifelong bond. From matching a pet’s age and temperament to your household rhythm to planning around vacation chaos, this conversation offers the practical playbook every adopter needs before they say yes.

We walk through family readiness, especially with young kids and tiny animals, and why “teenager” kittens can be a safer, happier match for busy homes. Jerri pulls back the curtain on shelter realities—why rescues won’t “run out” at Christmas, how returns strain limited space, and how thoughtful matching dramatically reduces heartbreak. We also champion seniors, sharing stories of adopters who choose older cats for their calm, grateful companionship, plus discounts and sponsorships that make these placements possible.

Care tips come rapid-fire and field-tested. Learn when to adopt around holiday travel, how to set up a quiet room during parties, and why most cats would rather stay home than “visit” for festivities. Get actionable advice on spay and neuter timing, low-cost clinics, interactive toys that beat boredom, using treats for positive reinforcement, and solving everyday hurdles like litter box pain points for arthritic seniors or the one cat who raids everyone’s bowl. If you’re weighing a Christmas adoption, this guide helps you choose with compassion and clarity—and sets your new friend up for an easy, loving start.

Enjoyed the conversation? Follow the show, share this episode with a friend who’s considering a pet, and leave a review with your top takeaway so we can answer your questions next time.

Contact  Jerri  Clay Hays 

678-817-9647

Office Website 

https://www.rescuecats.org

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