By Retta Lilliendahl
We have spent half a century with at least two furry greeters in our home. Though the term “our” home is debatable, as most pet owners know.
My first introduction to the Aristocat Café was when our three adult granddaughters made reservations to take our youngest granddaughter, Elsie, for her 8th birthday, which they all enjoyed immensely.
I contacted the Aristocat Café in Harrisonburg and made a reservation myself for a visit there. The lovely owner, Amanda Atwell, greeted me while she prepared a beverage for a guest. The café covered a vast assortment of coffees and teas.
I received a confirmation that I would be in the loft, which turned out to be on the same level, visible to my left through a glass partition. Amanda explained that it is called a loft because of the high ceilings. That was perfect for the multiple wall beds and standing cat condos. Seconds after I sat down by a small table, a friendly buff orange cat named Pepe hopped onto the table and gently bumped my arm. He accepted my attention like a pro. If it weren’t for the fact that I have two very spoiled cats at home, I would have caved. A young couple, who are members and own a dog that doesn’t understand cats, were there for a regular visit.
Amanda shared that in 2017, she and her husband visited their first cat café in Québec, Canada. They visited similar facilities throughout the U.S. It took years of research before she was ready to provide the best care for the cats and maintain the highest sanitary standards possible.
When Amanda connected with the Humane Society of Shenandoah County, she discovered a nonprofit agency with the same passion as hers. It consists of members who volunteer their time and services to help save cats and provide foster homes while they wait for their forever homes. https://hssdva.org
Aristocat Café fosters these adorable cats in a safe, caring, and immaculate environment. They are ready for adoption. All are neutered and up to date on all shots, except rabies.
They will soon begin partnering with Anicira Veterinary Center in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Anicira is a nonprofit organization that offers high-quality, affordable veterinary care for dogs and cats. http://www.anicira.org
