The Welsh patron saint of lovers also happens to be the patron saint of sick animals, and the charity says there’s no better time to open your heart to a pet who’s been waiting far too long for a forever home.
Cats Lucky, Jim and Cariad — along with long‑stay rabbits Pleakley and Stitch — are all hoping Dydd Santes Dwynwen brings them the happy ending they deserve.
Lucky: the gentle older boy who lost everything
Lucky, a 12‑year‑old cat now in the care of RSPCA Newport Animal Centre, arrived after his owner passed away. Staff say the upheaval has been a huge shock for him.
Deputy Centre Manager Amirah Jones said: “He arrived to us through the ‘Home for Life’ scheme due to his owner sadly passing away. The change from home life into our care has understandably been a big adjustment for him. Despite everything he’s been through, Lucky remains a sweet, gentle soul. He’s happiest curled up in his bed, enjoying a quiet space where he can relax and feel safe.”
Lucky needs an adult‑only, quiet home where he can settle slowly and be the only pet.
Amirah added: “Lucky is looking for someone with a big heart who understands that older cats still have so much love to give. We hope he finds love this St Dwynwen’s Day.”
Jim: the sensitive soul who just needs time
(Image: RSPCA)
Five‑year‑old Jim was abandoned before arriving at the Newport centre. Staff say he’s a thoughtful, gentle cat who blossoms once he feels safe.
Amirah said: “Jim likes to take his time getting to know new people and environments but once he feels secure, he grows in confidence and shows his super friendly side. He’s excellent at entertaining himself and enjoys calm companionship once he knows he can trust you.”
Jim would suit a home with older children and no other pets.
Cariad: the shy young mum who needs patience
(Image: RSPCA)
Cariad arrived at RSPCA Bryn‑Y‑Maen heavily pregnant and terrified. She gave birth to six kittens shortly after arriving and proved to be a devoted mother — but the busy cattery was too overwhelming for her, so she moved into foster care.
Animal Centre Supervisor Callum Bartley said: “We feel Cariad needs a quiet, calm, and predictable environment to feel safe. She will need patient owners experienced with nervous or shy cats. With the right understanding and gentle approach, this lady will blossom into a sweet companion.”
Cariad needs an adult‑only, dog‑free home where she can be the only pet.
Pleakley and Stitch: the long‑stay rabbits waiting for a second chance
Pleakley and Stitch have been in RSPCA care for almost a year after struggling to settle in previous homes. Both are now at Bryn‑Y‑Maen and looking for separate homes with owners who understand nervous rabbits.
Animal Care Assistant Nicole Rowson said: “Unfortunately Pleakley and Stitch have been in RSPCA for far too long. They both really struggled to adapt to a home environment as they have only experienced life in an RSPCA centre.”
Stitch is shy but affectionate once he trusts you, while Pleakley is laid‑back and food‑motivated.
Nicole added: “They will both need time, patience and gradual introductions to a new rabbit friend — but we feel both can do this.”
How to adopt
Anyone interested in rehoming Lucky or Jim the cats can complete an online application form on the RSPCA’s Newport site. If you’re interested in adopting Cariad the cat or Pleakley and Stitch the rabbits, then you can find out more through Brynmelin’s contact form.
The charity is also urging potential adopters to consider the long‑term costs of pet ownership, and to use its pet cost calculator before committing.
More animals looking for homes can be found on the RSPCA’s Find a Pet webpage.
Rising need as abandonment hits six‑year high
The RSPCA says abandonment reports are on track to reach a six‑year high, with frontline teams facing growing pressure. The charity has launched its Big Give Back to Animals campaign to support rescue and rehoming work through the winter.
