Submitted January 29, 2020
I have been dog obsessed for as long as I can remember. Ever since my 30th birthday I wanted a cat more than anything specifically one to match my puggle Finley’s snuggly sweet docile nature.
I met with dozens of cute cats at shelters and foster homes, but never felt connected to one. I felt a bit defeated so I took a break and trusted the timing.
Shortly after turning 32 I still hoped for a cat. At that time I truly educated myself on understanding cats and found the most perfect “pupcat” breed – Ragdolls!
I discovered a local ragdoll breeder and signed up on a waiting list for a kitten not yet born. I felt an intense feeling in my gut to search for references because something felt wrong to me.
I searched Instagram for the breeder hashtag because I couldn’t find much reviews anywhere. The breeder’s hashtag led me to a cat mom’s Instagram account. I sent her a direct message for reference purposes. I received an immediate reply in great length of her negative experience.
She then referred me to a highly reputable and home based breeder known as Castle Reign Ragdolls. I wholeheartedly appreciated the information shared my way so I took a leap of faith by dropping the potential breeder close to me and contacted Castle Reign Ragdolls located out of state. Best decision ever!
Castle Reign’s kitten wrangler, Amanda, is beyond wonderful. She raises each and every kitten & cat as part of her family with much love and socialization. She accepted my interest in bringing home one of her available kitten’s and took the time to share honest details of every kitten’s personality traits to help determine the best fit.
The moment I was shown photos and description of 4 month old *Willa Rose* in addition to photos of her mother and double grand champion father, my heart immediately knew that I found my dream cat. I chose a whimsical name because those are my favorite unique one-of-a-kind names.
I learned Willa Rose was originally arranged to go to a breeder but plans fell through, so I believe she was brought to me by chance. Amanda offered to travel via vehicle hundreds of miles my way to hand deliver Willa Rose to me. It was love at first sight.
Willa Rose is a blue high-mitted mink bicolor ragdoll and surprisingly matches my interior decor. She immediately settled in at home as if she’s been here all along. Her and Finley shared an instant bond therefore no slow introduction was necessary. She has been a delight since day one and is always by my side.
She’s now going on 8 months old and quite the little lady. I have a passion for photography and love how photogenic she is. Willa Rose is extra snuggly, enjoys classical music, bird watching and playing fetch. She even loves baths, hair dryers & grooming!
I now know that having a cat and dog coexist is the very best. My kids with paws are two peas in a pod. Willa Rose is exactly the loving cat I wished for. My mission is to help debunk cat myths and break the cat stigma one day at a time.
Here’s to not believing the nonbelievers. For some daily happiness check out my cat and dog instagram accounts @willatheragdoll & @finleythepuggle
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What a great, heartwarming story. Willa Rosa is such a beautiful name for such a gorgeous lady. My husband and I have a male Ragdoll and a male Golden Retriever. They are best of friends. We can not imagine life with out them. Our four year old grandson loves our Ragdoll because he is able to pick him up and carry him. His cat runs from him lol!!