2023-10-18

Special needs animals needing special homes



  • <p>KELLY INGLIS PHOTO</p><p>Chloe, 17, has hyperthyroidism, which is easily managed by a strict diet or inexpensive medication. She needs a quiet and loving retirement home.</p>
  • <p>KELLY INGLIS PHOTO</p><p>Phoenix is a charming and playful four-year-old male searching for a home who is committed to his special needs.</p>

Here at SHAID Tree Animal Shelter, we see an average of over 500 animals pass through our doors each year. After providing care including an intake exam, spay or neuter, vaccinations, deworming, flea treatment, vet exam, feline leukemia and feline immunodeficiency virus testing, and microchipping, most pets are ready to find their forever homes. But unfortunately for some, it's not that simple.

Phoenix has been at our shelter since he was relinquished by his owner on March 28, paralyzed from pain due to intense constipation. He was one of the most extreme cases of medical neglect we've seen.

Our veterinarian immediately performed an enema to clear his bowels and within days another blockage had formed. After months of tests, dietary changes, and medications, Phoenix has finally been cleared for adoption!

He has been diagnosed with chronic inflammatory bowel disease, constipation, and pancreatitis and will require daily medication and a strict diet. Despite his medical needs, Phoenix is a happy, healthy, handsome, and playful cat who loves interacting with humans. He is available via application only, to help us ensure his future health needs are met.

Chloe is a 17-year-old dilute tortoise-shell (grey and cream) sweetheart who was recently diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. This is easily treated with a specific diet or an inexpensive medication taken twice per day (which would allow her to eat any food); it is actually very common in older cats.

She enjoys sunbathing, chin scratches, and drinking water from the tub, and when she is wanting attention or food, she has no problem demanding it! Her special diet (or medication) will slow the thyroid down and support Chloe in the final months (possibly years) of her life. She will need regular vet check-ups to continue living out her retirement days.

Bear Paw is a solid black six-year-old male cat. He had a hard life up until now and was suffering from severe skin issues caused by years of flea infestation. He first comes off as shy, but will quickly warm up to you when you win his trust. He must be kept as an indoor cat and be the only cat in the home. He is very quiet and gentle, and would do best in a quiet home.

These three cats really need your help to find them their forever home. If you have any questions, or would like to meet them, please email info@shaidanimalshelter.com or drop in Tuesday through Saturday between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Don't forget to grab your 2024 Firefighters for Felines 2024 calendar! They are available now for $20 at both SHAID Tree Animal Shelter and Shurgain Feeds N Needs; this annual fundraiser helps us raise funds for the animals in our care. Thank you to our community for your ongoing support helping the South Shore's animals in need.

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