Lucky was rescued by children, then was helped by a local humane society and animal hospital. Lucky’s eyes were so damaged by an untreated infection his vet had to remove them. He is adapting quickly and is poised for a good new life with the perfect happy ending.
Children in Welland, Ontario, a Canadian community not far from Buffalo, NY and Niagara Falls, investigated when they heard a kitten’s cries last week and found the tiny source of the meows on an abandoned property. The kids rescued the kitten and took him home, and had their parents call the Welland & District Humane Society for help.
The Humane Society’s John Hoadley was the first to take a look at the 8 – 10 week old kitten, and was shocked by the condition of his eyes, which had ulcerated as a result of untreated URI (upper respiratory infection). Hoadley is quoted in the Welland Tribune saying, “It was easily, hands down, the worse eye damage I’ve ever seen on a cat,” even though the little sufferer was so very young. He said kitty looked so bad he initially thought he’d been hit by a car.
The kitten was taken to Dr. Nicole Denouden at Main West Animal Hospital in Welland, which maintains a close working relationship with the Humane Society.
“For us, we don’t typically see it get to that extent,” Dr. Denouden said of Lucky’s infection. Had the infection been treated right away with antibiotics it would not have progressed so far, and he’d still have his eyes and his sight. He’d already lost his sight before the surgery was carried out.
Lucky’s caregivers report that he was able to find his litterbox the day after his surgery, and he is learning to rely on his other senses to navigate the world.
Welland & District Humane Society animal care manager Tammy Gaboury said “Animals are so adaptable. It’s amazing to see the resilience they have,” and said Lucky should adapt quickly and will most likely lead a normal life.
“He was already living with impaired vision, we just removed the pain and infection,” Gadboury said. “If you met him, you’d understand. His personality and willingness to live, he just has so much life.”
Lucky has a home waiting for him once he is recovered from his surgery, which was covered by the Humane Society’s emergency relief fund. He will be adopted by the family of the children who found him.
John Hoadley praised the children, saying “If they didn’t find him, no one would have. They really are the heroes.”
