Boomer and AJ are lucky cats. Found as kittens in 2016, they were initially taken into the Ramona Humane Society. However, the shelter was running out of space. They were due to be euthanized but were instead rescued by Living Free Animal Sanctuary. They were named Coca-Cola and Dr. Pepper. Little did they know, these two kittens’ good fortune had only just begun. 

Kelly Thomas discovered Living Free on a visit to Idyllwild. As a dedicated animal lover, he instantly felt passionate about our cause. Kelly shares, “Whether it has been monthly financial donations or stopping by and dropping off blankets or cat furniture or dog food or even my donated 1997 Ford 4 x 4 truck a few years ago, I’ve always wanted to help.” 

Four years after Kelly’s first two cats went to cat heaven, he was just beginning to consider adopting. While he wasn’t quite ready to look for the perfect duo, Kelly often visited Living Free and would bring along other animal loving friends for tours. On one of these visits in November 2016, he curiously asked to see any of the new kittens. 

“This adorable black cat walked right up to my friend and flipped over on his back and put all four legs in the air,” shared Kelly. “We laughed, and my friend said, “I think this is the one.”  The staff explained that this kitten had a brother and they were all secretly hoping that somebody would adopt the brothers together because they were so tightly bonded. In that moment, Kelly knew that these were the two cats that he was bringing home. 

Kelly named the kittens Boomer and AJ. The two kittens grew into incredible, loving, and caring cats. Kelly struggled with some health issues in 2017 and 2018, and, as he puts it, “My amazing boys got me through it.” When they aren’t showering Kelly with love, Boomer and AJ enjoy watching birds from the window. They get particularly excited when another animal such as a deer or raccoon walks past the house.

“They still sleep together with arms around each other and still groom each other like best friends. That always leads to a wrestling match of course. They are now extremely helpful because I moved to a little town north of Seattle where I am living with my 87-year-old mother. The two boys give her lots of love and company. My mother has been a life-long dog lover, and now she is a new cat lover. My two amazing boys will jump on her lap and sleep with her and put a huge smile on her face. They are amazing companions for her.”

“I can only say that the expression “there are no accidents“ is absolutely true. I was meant to be with these two amazing little guys, and I will forever be grateful to the gentleman that led me into that room on November 11, 2016.”

Thank you, Kelly, for your love and dedication to Boomer, AJ, and all our animals at Living Free. It is wonderful to see such a special connection between you and your two amazing boys. We can’t wait to hear about your adventures together in the future.