Good Samaritan saves cat from freezing to death 

Phoenix on December 15 when she first came to the sanctuary. Photo courtesy of Happy Hearts Feline Rescue.

submitted by Jeanne Spencer, Happy Hearts Feline Sanctuary

Monday, December 15, was one of the coldest during the month; only 20 degrees. 

A cat was huddled in the middle of a local dirt road. It was unclear what had happened to it. What it hit by a car? Blind and disoriented as to where it was? Or just plain freezing to death. Nevertheless, a Good Samaritan stopped, picked her up, and sought help at Happy Hearts Feline Sanctuary. 

Fearing the worst, she was taken to our veterinarian to see what could be done for her. Dubbed Ash, she was examined and given immediate lifesaving measures. It was determined she is about 10 years old. Ash seemed near death, and it was thought it might be more humane to euthanize her, but Ash certainly didn’t seem to be ready to give up, so she was brought back to Happy Hearts, snuggled in a warm blanket and allowed to rest in warmth and quiet. 

But early that evening, she experienced a seizure and was rushed to the emergency veterinarian. It was determined that in addition to hypothermia, she suffered from low glucose. Lifesaving measures were again taken and she remained under the care of the emergency hospital for 36 hours. 

Renamed Phoenix (as she rises from the ashes), she is being cared for and recuperating. As we all know, nothing is certain, but Phoenix’s outlook is improving and it is hoped she will continue to improve and recover from her life-threatening experience.

Phoenix will be adoptable once she is fully recovered.

Happy Hearts Feline Rescue is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization located in Freedom Township providing care for older cats and those with special needs.

Veterinary and specialized care have a cost. Donations to our cause and to help with Phoenix’s continued care can be made through our website at happyheartsfelinesanctuary.org via PayPal, and please follow us on Facebook for events and updates. 

Phoenix on January 1. Photo courtesy of Happy Hearts Feline Rescue.

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and a founder of the Manchester Mirror.