Teams from Portland and Salem work together to provide immediate care to at-risk felines.
The call came into OHS’ Humane Law Enforcement team while they were out assisting with another case. But the situation was urgent. As many as 100 cats and kittens were living in unsanitary conditions with many needing immediate medical care.
This would be a very large intake at the Salem campus, more than doubling the feline population currently in their care. The team sprang into action and modified a separate space, called in extra help and were ready. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office Animal Services Officer arrived with more than 50 cats, but there were more who needed help. The Animal Services Officer made a second trip to the area and brought back another 37 cats and kittens.
Dr. Jacqueline Harter was the only vet on site in Salem that day, but she was in surgery. So, Dr. Kandace Henry from the Portland Campus traveled to Salem to help triage the cats and kittens.
Since the animals were considered evidence in an active investigation by Salem Police and the Polk County Sherriff, photos and documentation needed to be compiled very meticulously. Lila from OHS’ Humane Law Enforcement team led the process while Dr. Henry examined each feline and triaged their needs. Sydney and Colleen from the Salem medical team administered immediate care and ensured that the cats got the treatments they needed and were comfortable, fed, and safe.
The cats and kittens needed a variety of medical care – ranging from basic to complex.
Albany Yogi heals physically and emotionally
Albany Yogi had a unique look, but it was due to a malformed eye. The misshapen eye socket could make Albany vulnerable to future infections, so the Salem medical team removed the eye. He spent time with one of the Salem Campus’s most experienced foster parents, Michele, and made a full recovery. He is now ready for a new chapter in a loving adoptive home. Michele shared, “Alfred was a little skittish, but he has really blossomed. He loves to “talk,” he purrs when I pet him, and he’s even learned to give head butts and nose kisses.”
Fragile kittens find respite in foster homes
Frankie, Baloo and Lyra, pictured above, were among a group of fragile kittens moved to the Portland campus and into a foster home. OHS staff member Holly is nursing these kittens back to heath by providing a lot of food, love, and playtime. One of their favorite things to do is perch themselves on Holly’s shoulder and purr in her ear. “I’m so happy that they love people,” says Holly.
Oranges’ beauty is restored
Oranges arrived in Portland with a mysterious growth on his face, which turned out to be an infection from an old wound. Veterinarians drained the abscess and Orange Boy now has the beautiful face he was meant to have.
Receiving 87 cats, many needing medical care, in one day is a monumental task. Thanks to the medical teams from both campuses working together, this group of cats and kittens are getting the care they need and will all soon begin a new life.
