My pet's name
Tough Tilly
My pet's age
5 years
How long we have been together
5 years
My pet is special needs because...
My husband told me a kitten was out in the snow, eating the food. I looked at her and it seemed there was a twig hanging off the side of her body. When I finally was able to catch her and bring her inside I discovered that the twig was her front leg, hanging from almost a thread. It was infected badly. I took her to the vet. After a few days on antibiotics Tilly's front leg was amputated at the shoulder. I remember looking at her and thinking she would never be able to play and run around like other kittens. Tilly runs, jumps, plays and does everything any cat can do. She is extremely lovable and sweet.
What I have learned from having a special needs pet
Tillly taught me that her disability does not define her courage and will to live her life fully. She never whimpered or gave any indication of the pain that she endured with that horrible injury. I don't know the circumstances of her injury but it took a long time for her to trust. Aside from the care before and after her surgery, Tilly is a normal cat. She eats, plays, runs, climbs and does whatever she likes. She's been the teacher.
Tips and Tricks
- I can only say do not give up on your special needs pet. If there is any chance for them to live a normal life, give them that chance. Whatever special care or procedures your pet may need to survive the injury or challenge, they give back to you double. Tilly is not my first special needs pet. She and the others give everything they've got to survive and live fully. They give us so much more than we can ever imagine. To watch her bat around a toy, chase after another cat is a miracle and a joy. To euthanize based solely on a perceived "imperfection" is not and never will be an option for me or my family.
