Nurse Pepper

Animals know when they are needed when the unconditional love they provide makes all the difference in helping to heal a human in need. Such was the case eight years ago when a small gray tabby cat appeared at the door of an elderly woman who had just had hip surgery. It was apparent that the cat didn’t have a home and had been roaming freely, but realized her healing powers were needed.

Pepper (as she was named) immediately jumped into bed with Millie, never left her side, and with a little “meow” told her everything would be okay. This was Pepper’s home now and the two were inseparable.

Fast forward seven years and Millie underwent another surgical procedure that required additional bed rest. Pepper was very concerned, and again never left her side. However, this time Pepper contracted a serious urinary tract infection and stopped eating and drinking. She just laid in her litterbox in an extreme amount of pain. There is a delicate balance cats experience and when they don’t eat or drink for several days it can be life-threatening.

Pepper’s mom contacted HSMC, praying that we could help. She was on a limited income and didn’t have the funds to help her best friend. When they arrived, Pepper was barely moving and extremely dehydrated. Her body was shutting down and it was touch and go for this special feline companion. She stayed overnight at the HSMC Veterinary Clinic while IV fluids and antibiotics were administered as a last-ditch effort. The next day Pepper ate a few bites and slowly began to improve.

Pepper is now home with her beloved owner and is back to her feisty self. She has resumed her bed hogging and nursing duties. Thanks to your generous donations, we were able to save Pepper’s life so she can continue to watch over her eighty-eight-year-old mom.