Bernie (bonded with Dream)

***Bernie would do best in a quiet home with Dream, a fellow foster cat who has become the focus of his affection. They are an adorable couple!<br/><br/>Bernie was found near a dumpster, trying to survive alongside other stray cats. Life outside made him cautious — he learned to stay hidden, to observe from a distance, and to only trust what felt truly safe. But behind that timid gaze is a gentle soul just waiting to feel secure.<br/><br/>Bernie is shy, yes — but he’s not closed off. With patience, a soft voice, and a few Catit treats, he begins to open up. He now accepts gentle pets on his head, and even his back, especially while enjoying his favourite snack. He watches the other cats play with feather toys and the laser pointer, clearly intrigued, and finally decided to join in the play recently!<br/><br/>Sometimes Bernie hisses — but it’s not aggression — It’s just his way of saying, “I’m still learning how to trust.” And the moment he sees a treat in his foster mom’s hand, all that hesitation melts away. He’ll lick it right from her fingers with no fear at all.<br/><br/>He loves having a safe space, like a cozy cubby in a cat tree—somewhere he can hide but still peek out to see what’s going on. It gives him the comfort he needs, while making it easy for his foster mom to visit and gently remind him he’s not alone nor forgotten.<br/><br/>Bernie is a sweetheart at heart — just a little unsure about people still. He has found a soulmate in Dream, a gentle cat with whom Bernie shares many loving headbutts and mutual grooming. He will thrive in a quiet home with Dream by his side, both learning to engage with people while giving each other support and comfort. He hasn’t been tested with dogs, so a dog-free home might be best for now.<br/><br/>Bernie is waiting for someone kind and patient to see the beautiful, gentle boy he truly is. Could you be the one to show him that love doesn’t hurt — and that home can be forever?<br/><br/>If you like to make Bernie and Dream a part of your family, please complete our online application found at: https://www.avacats.org/adoption-application-form.<br/><br/>Our adoption fees cover vetting and include spay/neuter, vaccines (initial FVRCP and rabies), flea treatment, two dewormings and microchipping.<br/><br/>Adoption fees are $250 for each adult cat 1 year or older. Please note that fees may apply for additional required vaccinations (at $75 per booster) due prior to adoption. Total adoption fees will be confirmed by the AVA Adoption Coordinator.

***Bernie would do best in a quiet home with Dream, a fellow foster cat who has become the focus of his affection. They are an adorable couple!

Bernie was found near a dumpster, trying to survive alongside other stray cats. Life outside made him cautious — he learned to stay hidden, to observe from a distance, and to only trust what felt truly safe. But behind that timid gaze is a gentle soul just waiting to feel secure.

Bernie is shy, yes — but he’s not closed off. With patience, a soft voice, and a few Catit treats, he begins to open up. He now accepts gentle pets on his head, and even his back, especially while enjoying his favourite snack. He watches the other cats play with feather toys and the laser pointer, clearly intrigued, and finally decided to join in the play recently!

Sometimes Bernie hisses — but it’s not aggression — It’s just his way of saying, “I’m still learning how to trust.” And the moment he sees a treat in his foster mom’s hand, all that hesitation melts away. He’ll lick it r

***Bernie would do best in a quiet home with Dream, a fellow foster cat who has become the focus of his affection. They are an adorable couple!

Bernie was found near a dumpster, trying to survive alongside other stray cats. Life outside made him cautious — he learned to stay hidden, to observe from a distance, and to only trust what felt truly safe. But behind that timid gaze is a gentle soul just waiting to feel secure.

Bernie is shy, yes — but he’s not closed off. With patience, a soft voice, and a few Catit treats, he begins to open up. He now accepts gentle pets on his head, and even his back, especially while enjoying his favourite snack. He watches the other cats play with feather toys and the laser pointer, clearly intrigued, and finally decided to join in the play recently!

Sometimes Bernie hisses — but it’s not aggression — It’s just his way of saying, “I’m still learning how to trust.” And the moment he sees a treat in his foster mom’s hand, all that hesitation melts away. He’ll lick it right from her fingers with no fear at all.

He loves having a safe space, like a cozy cubby in a cat tree—somewhere he can hide but still peek out to see what’s going on. It gives him the comfort he needs, while making it easy for his foster mom to visit and gently remind him he’s not alone nor forgotten.

Bernie is a sweetheart at heart — just a little unsure about people still. H