When Queenie arrived at the Exploits Valley SPCA, she was heavily pregnant but instantly affectionate, winning hearts with her gentle spirit. Estimated to be around two years old, the sweet black cat had already endured more than her share of motherhood. Soon after arriving at the shelter, she gave birth to eight kittens and devoted herself to raising them with tireless love. Queenie was a natural—nursing, cleaning, and teaching her babies how to trust people. While each kitten grew strong, social, and ready for adoption, Queenie remained at the shelter, patiently waiting for a family of her own.
As her kittens were adopted one by one, Queenie—who had given so much—was left behind. Months passed, and while other cats came and went, she watched from her room, still hoping for her turn. By December, Queenie had become the shelter’s longest resident, having waited six months through birthing, raising, and letting go. The staff posted about her story online, wishing that someone would give this loyal, loving mom the life she deserved—just in time for the holidays.
That wish came true in the most heartwarming way. Allison Crowe, who had adopted Queenie’s look-alike daughter Luna months earlier, saw the shelter’s post after losing her senior cat, Johnny. Struck by the thought of Queenie still waiting alone, she knew exactly what to do. Allison returned to the shelter and brought Queenie home, reuniting mother and daughter. Now renamed Juno, the once-overlooked mom is basking in the love of her forever family—snuggling with Luna, bonding with their dog Linkers, and finally getting to be someone’s baby, just as she always deserved.
