At Happy Paws Happy Hearts (HPHH), one of the most valuable skills participants develop is recognising that every animal, no matter their background or story is unique and deserving of care.

Each week at Ten Lives Cat Centre, our Thursday morning Intro to Handle group spends time with the shelter's boarding cats. Although these cats aren't awaiting adoption, being away from the familiarity of home can still be unsettling, making positive interactions still incredibly important for their wellbeing.

What has been particularly special in recent months is witnessing just how confidently participants are now putting their animal care learnings into practice. Rather than approaching every cat in the same way, participants independently assess each animal's body language, behaviour and emotional state before together, deciding how best to engage.

For Ruby, whose very first session at HPHH was marked by the remarkable patience she showed a timid 13-year-old shelter cat named Kava, those same instincts continue to shine. When one boarding cat was too nervous to leave their hideaway or eat, Ruby quietly sat nearby, allowing the cat time and space to build confidence before gently encouraging them to emerge.

For Alice, the confidence she has been steadily building through both her Ten Lives Cat Centre and Dogs' Homes of Tasmania programs has continued to flourish. Having worked hard towards becoming more confident communicating and problem-solving independently, Alice now applies that same thoughtful approach with the animals. Recognising that three longer-term boarding cats needed an outlet for their energy, she confidently encouraged play and enrichment, helping them express their natural behaviours in a positive way.

Meanwhile, participants Mollie, Angus and Jemma together observed some of the other cats simply needed quiet companionship, and offered some calm lap cuddles and gentle affection, helping those missing the comfort of home.

For Program Trainer Juliana, this moment was a proud reflection of just how far the group has come.

"As we discussed the needs of each boarding cat, I realised I didn't have to tell participants what to do anymore. They already knew how to observe each cat as an individual and adapt their approach to suit. It was wonderful to watch them confidently put their learning into practice."

Together, these thoughtful interactions extend the impact of HPHH beyond shelter animals awaiting adoption, helping boarding cats feel safe, settled and cared for while they're away from home. At the same time, participants continue to build confidence and find genuine purpose through the meaningful role they play in supporting the everyday care and wellbeing of all cats at Ten Lives Cat Centre.