Nectarine

Back in late August 2003, Vickie Vonn received a phone call around 8:30pm, about a kitty found in the Waverly Point sub-division, who needed immediate help. When she arrived, she was taken back by her condition. Vickie has, unfortunately, seen a number of imbedded collars working in animal welfare, but this was one of the worst cases ever.

The cat, a young adult Calico, weighed under 5 pounds! Her hip bones were sticking out and her neck constricted by a collar with a circumference of a 35mm film roll. She could hardly swallow. A terrible infection had set in and her fur was completely gone, her flesh was ravaged almost to the bone. Still, she was so sweet and gentle, wanting to be pet and loved.

Because of the late hour, she was placed in a room with clean blankets, a litter box, fresh food and water and allowed to rest until first thing the next morning when she was transported to Willowrun Veterinary Hospital, where the tiny collar was cut off and her wound cleaned and she was given medications for pain and to fight infection.

A plea was sent out to JCAPL volunteers, in search for a foster home for little Nectarine, as she was named. Susan Musico, from Clayton made arrangements for Vickie to bring Nectarine to her that evening. The minute Susan and Nectarine met, there was a bond formed. The tiny cat immediately jumped upon Susan's lap and cuddled, purring like a motor.

Nectarine continued her recovery with visits to Clayton Animal Hospital, which was just minutes from Susan's home. She was scheduled for spay surgery, only to find when she was shaved in preparation that she had already had the procedure done.

Although there were a few set backs in her recovery, the love and kindness that Susan bestowed on this frail feline has worked wonders. She almost doubled her weight in less than 10 weeks! Her fur is 100% back, her bones are no longer evident, but her affection level and her motoring purr remain the same!

Susan who describes her as a "dear, affectionate lap-kitty" told me she has captured a place in her heart and that Nectarine has found a permanent home with her.

Thank you Susan for all you have done for Nectarine!