Every Saturday I usually post a funny cat video to give readers a morning chuckle but this week a sad story came to me that was worth sharing.

While #Caturday is enjoyed all over the world with fun and silly videos, we should remember that not all cats are as lucky as others and are often injured and killed in our communities. This is just one story…



Phoenix prior to his surgery (Photo Credit: AlleyCATS Alliance)

A very injured cat recently came into the care of the AlleyCATS Alliance after a resident found him wandering the streets.

The woman who found the cat, now named Phoenix, thought that he had been caught in a leg trap which had badly injured his front leg. When AlleyCATS representative Theresa Nolet looked into the box containing the cat she saw that he was in serious trouble. Phoenix was taken to Rose Valley Veterinary hospital in West Kelowna. Veterinarians there confirmed that the leg was beyond repair and would have to be amputated.

Phoenix post-surgery (Photo Credit: AlleyCATS Alliance)

Adding to the already troublesome situation was that Phoenix was very dehydrated and an infection had set in. The non-profit society did not have the funds to pay for such an operation but Dr. Oz at the Veterinary hospital generously agreed to do the amputation at no charge. He also committed to doing all follow up visits free of charge as well.

“Phoenix is one of the lucky ones as he found his way to a compassionate woman who took him in, and in spite of the horrendous result of being caught in a leg hold trap,” said Nolet. “Dr. Oz has given Phoenix a second chance at a full and happy life, however Phoenix will need a special home where he will be kept inside and given the medical attention he may require in the future due to his amputation Once Phoenix is fully recovered he will be available for adoption.”

Phoenix getting some much deserved rest post-surgery (Photo Credit: AlleyCATS Alliance)

Phoenix has since had the urgently needed surgery and is said to be recovering at Dr. Oz’s clinic in West Kelowna. If you are interested in helping Phoenix’s recovery or donating to AlleyCATS Alliance you can find more information about the organization here.