International Adoptions: How Cats From Greece Find Homes Abroad
- Aerial Design and Build
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Every year, thousands of cats roam the streets of Greece - vulnerable to hunger, illness, and neglect. While some find loving homes locally, many more begin an extraordinary journey: from the alleys of Athens or the islands of Crete, all the way to forever families in Europe, the UK, the USA, and beyond.
At Let’s be S.M.A.R.T., we believe love knows no borders. Our international adoption program makes it possible for rescued cats to start new lives abroad, transforming their futures while giving adopters a companion who’s already proven to be a survivor.
Why International Adoptions Matter
The reality in Greece is tough: overpopulation of strays, limited local adopters, and a constant influx of abandoned animals needing care. Without international adoptions, many cats would never know the safety of a real home.
In 2024 alone, 61 of our cats and dogs traveled abroad to join their forever families. Each adoption freed up space at our sanctuary, allowing us to save even more lives.
From Rescue to Forever Home: How It Works
Rescue & Rehabilitation
Cats are rescued from the streets, given medical treatment, tests, vaccinations, sterilization, and the love they’ve never known before.
Matching with Families
Adoption applications from abroad are carefully reviewed. We match each cat with the right household to ensure a lifetime of happiness for both.
Health & Travel Prep
We take care of microchipping, blood tests, passports, vaccinations, and travel crates - everything required for international adoption.
The Journey
Some cats fly with flight volunteers, while others travel with their adopters. We provide guidance to make the trip as stress-free as possible.
Arrival & Homecoming
Families welcome their new companion, and we stay in touch for post-adoption support. The joy of seeing a rescued cat thrive in a loving home is worth every step.
The Challenges & Costs
International adoptions are life-saving, but they’re not without challenges.
On average, bringing one cat up to health and preparing them for travel costs around €300. This covers vaccinations, sterilization, microchipping, blood and fecal tests, paperwork, and a safe travel carrier.
The adoption costs are only partly covered - the rest depends on donations and sponsorships from kind supporters.
Success Stories
Frisco - From Broken Jaw to Beloved Companion
Frisco was born near a taverna in Crete and later struck by a car, leaving his jaw shattered. For over a year, he suffered untreated - until a kind vet stepped in, performing multiple surgeries. Once healed, Frisco came to our sanctuary in Athens, where his gentle, affectionate nature shone through.Despite being FIV-positive and having a quirky little jaw that never fully closed, he charmed everyone he met. One volunteer, in particular, fell in love with him and knew she couldn’t leave without making him part of her family. Today, Frisco is thriving in his forever home, living proof that resilience and love can overcome even the hardest pasts.
Thomas - A Bond That Crossed Borders
Thomas was rescued from a difficult life on the streets, unsure if he could trust humans. He came to our sanctuary and everyone fell in love with him. Thomas met Irina, a volunteer at our sanctuary who traveled from France to help our mission. Their connection was instant. Day after day, Thomas followed her, seeking affection only from her. It became clear to everyone that they belonged together.When Irina returned home, she took Thomas with her. Today, he’s a spoiled, happy boy, proof that sometimes the cats choose their people first.
How You Can Help
Every international adoption is a team effort. Here’s how you can get involved:
Adopt a cat from Greece: https://www.letsbesmart-greece.org/adoptions
Sponsor a cat’s travel costs: https://www.letsbesmart-greece.org/donations
Become a Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/posts/welcome-to-lets-116956709
Volunteer as a flight buddy: https://www.letsbesmart-greece.org/volunteer-program
Raise awareness: https://www.letsbesmart-greece.org/blog
Every Journey Starts With a Paw Print
At Let’s be S.M.A.R.T., we know the journey from the streets of Greece to a cozy sofa abroad is more than a trip - it’s a second chance at life. With your help, we can continue to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome cats who deserve nothing less than love.Will you be the reason our next cat finds their forever family?
Together, we’re creating a kinder, safer world for cats - one paw at a time. Thank you for being part of the journey.
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