A Special Bond: Lena and Rosie’s Story
At PAWS-PATAS, we are incredibly fortunate to have the continued support of many dedicated international volunteers—some of whom return year after year to lend a helping hand in our kennels. Their familiarity with our shelter, knowledge of our protocols, and previous training are of great value, enabling them to contribute meaningfully from the moment they arrive.
One such devoted volunteer is Lena Brossel, who has been visiting PAWS-PATAS for several years. During each stay, Lena also helps our Cat Team—offering foster care to vulnerable kittens, including bottle feeding when needed, and spending her evenings in the cattery socialising with our feline residents. Her commitment and compassion bring comfort to the many cats in our care.
On her most recent visit, Lena met two new arrivals: Rosie and Polly. These two older cats had spent their entire lives in a loving home until their owner sadly passed away. Suddenly uprooted, they found themselves in an unfamiliar and noisy shelter environment. Understandably, Rosie and Polly struggled to adjust—particularly to the constant barking from the kennels and the presence of new people each day. They often hid at the back of their pen, withdrawn and wary.
But in the quiet of the evening, Lena discovered a different side to them. Once the shelter had calmed down, both cats revealed themselves to be affectionate and eager for companionship. Their trust in her grew daily, and their affectionate nature began to shine through.
During her stay, Lena began to consider the possibility of adopting one of them. After returning to her home in Germany, she made the decision to adopt Rosie—news that brought great joy to the entire PAWS-PATAS cat team.
In a final act of kindness and commitment, Lena returned to Spain just a month later—not to have Rosie transported by road, but to personally accompany her home by plane. The pair travelled together to begin a new chapter in Germany.
We are truly grateful to Lena for her unwavering support and for opening her heart and home to Rosie. We wish them both many happy years together, filled with love, comfort, and companionship.
Thank you, Lena—from all of us at PAWS-PATAS.
