Oliver Dean & Oakley
We are two 12-year-old DSH brothers, and we are already neutered. We came from a pet store and have lived with our owner all our lives. Oliver Dean weighs 12 pounds, and Oakley weighs 13.3 pounds. We are both brown-black tabbies with white bibs, but Oakley has white on his face, and Oliver D. does not. We are bonded, love each other, and count on each other for comfort, security, and peace of mind. Our owner surrendered us to the HSHC on July 13, saying they are rarely home and their lifestyle has changed. We never lived with other animals or socialized with visitors.
When we first arrived at the shelter, we were very stressed and confused about our situation. We reacted to the medical procedures, being examined, and having our cages cleaned with hissing, swatting, nipping, and trying to escape. This is a typical reaction to so much change. In our home, Oliver would hide when guests came over, and Oakley would hiss to say, "Please leave." We had to share one litterbox, and it turns out that Oliver D. had a UTI-very painful. We now eat Hill's C/D Urinary prescription diet to promote better urinary health. This has greatly improved his health and comfort. Because we were still experiencing stress in the Cattery, we moved into a foster home on August 27, where we could decompress and enjoy a quieter routine. The interviewer (IL) has been in touch with our Foster Father (FF), and he's been very pleased with our progress. On October 13, he reported the following information about us.
During their first week here, Oakley hissed, swatted, and nipped if I got too close, and Oliver spent most of his time hiding under my bed. After about a week, they both settled in nicely and relaxed into my home.

They are both super cuddly, vocal, affectionate, and adore being petted. As soon as I sit on the couch or lie down in bed, they quickly follow suit and come to cuddle.

They love to play (when they aren't snoozing, which is their favorite activity). They especially love wand toys and catnip Kick Stix. They love spending time sunbathing in their window beds.

Oliver is a peaceful sweetheart 24/7; Oakley usually is too, but he can be sassy. When he gets fussy, give him space and leave him alone.

They have an inseparable bond, but like siblings, they occasionally scuffle. Typically, Oakley instigates, but it's never a serious fight.

They are not fond of strangers. When my mother visited to care for them while I was away on vacation, Oliver hid away, and Oakley hissed and swatted at her. It takes him a long time to trust new people.

They both have perfect litter box etiquette and have had zero accidents in my home.

To summarize, we are both doing so well! Our personalities are really shining; we are just so sweet. I think our photographs of us close together show just how adorable we are! 10-14-26