Vernon SPCA bids adieu to unofficial greeter, Roger the cat

Roger the cat was the unofficial greeter at the Vernon BC SPCA for more than 14 years and his "cattitude" was known far and wide.

Since he predates the existing shelter staff, his story is a bit of a mystery but Chelsea Taylor, Vernon and district manager, says it’s believed that Roger initially arrived at the shelter in 2007 as a stray. 

“He apparently was stressed out in the shelter, so was brought into the office and then just never left,” Taylor said in a press release. “Throughout the years staff and volunteers have pitched in and taken care of his food and medical costs.”

Taylor says Roger was always full of “cattitude” and “quite independent.” He also had a cuddlier side. 

“He loved napping in the sun, or on the arms of our plush reception chairs, and soliciting food from us during our staff meetings. As he got older and slowed down a bit, he also loved his afternoon cuddles with staff,” she said.

Roger was estimated to be more than 20 years old when he passed away. 

Taylor, who brought him into her home for his last year, says his uniqueness and his reliable presence over the last 14 years is what staff will miss most. 

“His flat face and grumpy nature made him special. He was widely known by many people, including staff, volunteers, and the community, for a long time, and it’s been great hearing the many happy memories people have of spending time with Roger. He will be very much missed,” she said.

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