Junior's Second Chance: Small Steps, Big Hope

10/17/26 Positive Update! The orthopedic doctor whom we love and trust at Orion Animal Hospital, Dr Natalie Zalac said surgery might not be needed, and the injuries need more time. Junior is also making baby steps of improvement!

We will still be there to help with his neuter surgery when ready, and vax if needed. Paws crossed! Second chances for this boy who was found homeless.

10/15/26: Can you help us help “Junior”? He is yet another ginger kitty in need of help after being found severely injured. Here is the email I received:

“Junior is a little orange male stray, less than a year in age, who started showing up on my patio at night, hungry and looking for companionship.

He seemed drawn to my orange-and-white cat, Oscar, who is a much bigger version of him, which is how he got his name! Over time, he began returning regularly, hanging around after eating, and eventually curling up on the patio steps. He was wary of people, but he gradually became more comfortable with my presence.

After being missing for about a week, Junior returned badly injured after being hit by a car.
I brought him inside and got him to the vet, where X-rays revealed a broken pelvis and a tailbone fracture dangerously close to his spine, causing significant nerve issues and affecting his hind legs. He now needs surgery to repair his pelvis and give him the best chance at healing and living a comfortable life.

Junior is safe inside and slowly learning to trust me. Every day, he makes little steps forward. He takes treats from my hand, follows me for food, eats in front of me, reaches out to touch my hand with his paws, and has even licked my hand. He’s beginning to accept gentle pets, and it’s been incredibly rewarding to watch him come out of his shell.
Once his pelvis has been repaired and he has recovered, the plan is to have his tail shortened as far as is safely possible and have him neutered.

Junior has already overcome so much just to get to this point. Now, I want to give him the chance to heal, feel safe, and live the life he deserves.”