This story was originally shared on The Animal Rescue Site. Submit your own rescue story here. Your story just might be the next to be featured on our blog!

Two years ago, my 14 year old Pekingese crossed the rainbow bridge. After many tear-filled nights poring over the local animal shelter's Facebook page, I finally decided last January it was time to try and fill the gap his passing had left.

After some soul searching, I made the tough decision that a cat would be more suitable. I decided I wanted to rescue an older cat and not a kitten. I discovered Lori, who had been at the shelter for seven months. She had arrived pregnant and was uncomfortable with the other cats. For this reason, she was kept in a cage instead of being out with the others. However, she would still rub against her cage for human attention.

It has been an adventure with my girl now known as Ezzy. The first two months at home‚ she wouldn't leave her room. As we neared our two month anniversary together, I had accepted the fact that she may never venture downstairs. I decided as long as she was taking care of herself, I needed to be satisfied that I had given her a loving environment.

Then one day, she decided to put her trust in me and within days was taking advantage of the entire house! At first, she didn't understand toys, but now she has a pile. She has grown from being scared of every sound, to sitting on the windowsill watching the birds. She was silent, now a chatterbox. She grew from only wanting to be touched occasionally to love crazed and demanding my full attention. After another month. she warmed up to my boyfriend but still hides from strangers.

She continues to progress. Please be patient when you chose to adopt, and don't give up hope. It can be the best decision of your (and their) life.

Story submitted by Jody Grimes from Schellsburg, Pennsylvania.

This story was originally shared on The Animal Rescue Site. Share your very own rescue story here!