Truffles is a life saver.
The two-year-old domestic short-hair tortoiseshell cat came to Frances Micallef as a mental health therapy-assistance cat during her darkest times.
Frances credits Truffles with helping her survive those tough periods.
“When I wasn’t feeling well, she even learned to open my door and come in and sit with me,” she said.
“She became my best friend. She saved my life.”
But now, it’s Truffles who is in need of
saving.
On Saturday, February 3, Truffles was walking along the fence in her backyard when she was pulled down by a large dog.
The vicious attack, in which Truffles “was thrown around like a rag doll”, resulted in removal of her spleen, along with broken ribs, a dislocated hip, a torn groin, multiple muscle tears and a leaking lung.
Frances’ mum saw the attack before rushing the beloved cat to the nearest vet.
“I took her to the vet in a horrible state and they couldn’t do much without a large payment,” Mrs Micallef said. “I gave them all the money I had, which was $200.
“Once they stabilised her, I was able to carry her – with a drip attached – to the Lort Smith Animal Hospital, where they performed the necessary surgeries to save her life.”
Truffles’ prognosis is positive, but
Mrs Micallef said she would require 24-hour care for some time.
“She’s out of the woods now, but she’ll need round the clock care for a long time,” she said.
“It doesn’t bother me – she’s done so much for my daughter, it’s the least we can do.”
Initial medical expenses have amounted to $5000, leaving the family in a precarious situation.
“I have a disability and rely on my Centrelink,” Mrs Micallef said.
“I have $100 come out of my Centrelink each week to pay the vet, but that leaves me with $50 to feed me and my daughter.
The Pet Medical Crisis Fund, a charity that helps pay vet bills for those doing it hard, has contributed $1000 and is accepting donations.
All money raised will go directly towards Truffles’ vet bill.
To donate, visit:www.petmedicalcrisisfund.com.
