Andrew's Story

by Susanne Champ | Apr 30, 2014

Andrew was a tiny 11-week-old kitten, found on an arctic winter night, nearly frozen to death. He weighed less than two pounds, was barely moving, hypothermic and going into shock when he was rushed to PAWS Chicago’s Rescue & Recovery Center. Our veterinarians were able to save him, and his foster mom, Brigette, nursed him back to health for five weeks following. Andrew blossomed into a playful, healthy kitten in foster care, which is why it only took 36 hours for him to be adopted. He now spends his days tussling with his PAWS sister, Ava.

Andrew arrived at the Rescue & Recovery Center barely alive, clinging to life.

 

A little more than a week later, he was eating on his own and starting to show signs of improvement.

Andrew’s foster mom, Brigette, takes on his rehabilitation: “Since Andrew loves to be held, administering his three-times daily eye ointment is no problem. He has nose drops to help with the stuffy nostrils, “kitty saunas” for when he has too much trouble breathing clearly and a daily antibiotic to help with his eye and respiratory infections.”

Foster care is helping Andrew thrive: “He is eating, growing and playing like any other normal, healthy kitten should. He is such a sweet boy with a super soft coat who is ready for his big debut at the Adoption Center!” says Brigette.

Andrew, the tiny kitten who was found nearly frozen to death, was adopted within 36 hours of arriving at the Adoption Center, along with new kitty sibling, Ava.

 

Preparing for the Unexpected: 

Tips for Protecting Your Pet’s Future 

It’s not something anyone wants to think about, but planning for your pet’s future needs, should something unexpected happen, is the best way to ensure that your special companion continues to receive the love and care it deserves. Here are a few ways to ensure your pet isn’t overlooked:

 

• Designate - Choose people you trust to care for your pet including any financial support. Be sure to name alternate caregivers in case your first choice becomes unavailable. Any caregiver should be a trusted friend or relative who has cared and loved for pets themselves. For long-term planning, work with an attorney to draw up a special will, trust or other document to designate permanent ownership.
• Identify Emergency Caregivers - Find at least two responsible friends/relatives who agree to serve as temporary emergency caregivers. Provide them with keys to your home and detailed care instructions for your pet, including the name of your vet. Carry a wallet ‘alert card’ that lists their names and numbers. 
• Make Pet Presence Known - Post removable ‘in case of emergency’ notices on your windows and doors specifying how many and what type of pets you have along with a list of emergency caregiver contact names and phone numbers.