Ziggy’s Royal Transformation
Dec 16, 2024
Ziggy’s journey shows how the perfect pet can find you unexpectedly.
In the crowded halls of Chicago Animal Care and Control, tiny kitten Ziggy made her presence known. Despite being in major pain from a front paw injury, it was clear she was seeking connection and comfort. Our team spotted her bright green bandage as she dragged it around her cage, pressing against the bars to get any form of love she could.
When a member of our team reached for Ziggy, she nuzzled into her palm as though it was the safest place on earth.
Once back at the PAWS Chicago Nan & Wayne Kocourek Medical Center, we found a large open wound and multiple broken bones in Ziggy’s foot underneath that bandage, but we’re uniquely suited for a pet like Ziggy – with in-house medical capabilities to handle it all.
Due to the extent of her injuries, Ziggy would need amputation surgery, which she received the very next day, and the day after, was picked up by a foster family to finish recovery with.
But what Ziggy found there was far more than just some temporary comfort.
The Miranda family initially signed up to be a short-term foster, not expecting to officially add to the family—but that’s exactly what happened. “We weren’t looking for the perfect pet, we just wanted to help,” her adopter, Susana Miranda explains. “But [Ziggy] found us, and our family feels more complete.”
From the moment Ziggy, now known as Princess, arrived in the Miranda’s home, it was clear she was meant to be a part of their family. Although she was still healing, she was incredibly sweet, trusting, and gentle. “The amount of trust she shows toward us is amazing. She made herself at home right away and won the hearts of everyone,” Susana shares.
Princess’ new family is looking forward to many happy years with her. “My children and I are very happy and grateful,” Susana says. Princess has truly found her happily-ever-after.