TWO long-term residents of Country Hill Animal Shelter have new homes in time for Christmas.

Blueberry and Muffin, two tortoiseshell mix cats, had been at the shelter for several years, and were often overlooked by prospective owners as Muffin was quieter and could be slightly grumpy.

Susie, from Country Hill Animal Shelter, said: ‘Muffin is 11, and her and Blueberry had to be re-homed together, both reasons it has been harder for them to find their forever homes.

‘While Blueberry would come up to people, meow and charm them, Muffin, probably because she was a bit scared, would stay quiet and out of the way. They were often overlooked for more friendly cats.’

The staff at Country Hill Animal Shelter persevered, and last week Blueberry and Muffin were chosen by a couple who live just outside Kingsbridge.

‘They were looking for a pair of cats, and they wanted ones that really needed their help’, explained Susie, ‘they knew they had their own little issues and were willing to make the effort with them.

‘Since they have been in their new home, their new owners have left them alone to explore their surroundings and investigate everything, and now they’re coming up on the sofa for cuddles and attention.

‘They have a garden and will be able to roam around to their hearts content, and just in time for Christmas.’

If you would be interested in rehoming a cat, you can contact Country Hill Animal Shelter on 01548 853650, or visit their website: www.countryhillanimalshelter.co.uk. You can also find them on Facebook.