One of the nicest things that happened to me this week is that I worked with a group of the best people in the world to help Peg and Buzz find their forever home. This story had a happy ending because of the combined efforts of a generous veterinarian, our group of faithful shelter volunteers, and a local newspaper.
Tabby kitty Peg had been left to fend for herself on the streets where she nearly died from starvation and a dangerously infected leg. Poor Peg had been declawed and had probably been unable to fight off a predator. Our veterinarian Dr Johnson saved the cat's life by amputating her leg.
Within weeks, Peg was on the mend and bouncing around the clinic on three legs. One day she cheerfully ran up to another clinic resident, a midnight black former tom cat named Buzz. Buzz had recently lost his home when he developed a urinary tract infection and his family couldn't care for him. The clinic staff ran to separate them because they knew Buzz didn't like other cats—and he was much bigger than Peg.
But Buzz acted like he had known Peg forever and the two instantly became best friends. They became inseparable, grooming each other and curling up together like a big pretzel.
Dr. Johnson started to think that it would be especially nice if they could stay together forever—but it's not easy to find homes for a three-legged cat and a cat who needs a special diet. So she contacted the group of volunteers at our local shelter and we all put our heads together. We decided to get proactive. I was assigned to write a press release about Peg and Buzz, and our local pet photographer, Deja Webster, took their photo.
Even in a small town like this, there is lots of competition for newspaper space. But our timing was perfect; it was Valentine's week and this story had hearts and love all over it! The Jefferson County Leader published our article and within hours, kind-hearted souls were calling about Peg and Buzz. Potential adopters were carefully screened to make sure they were worthy of our special kitties and today, Peg and Buzz are in a wonderful home—together.
(Photo credit: Deja Webster)
