Neglected & Abandoned Kittens Recovering At Second Chance

Already full with cats, Second Chance Humane Society recently received a call for help from the City of Montrose Animal Control after they’d just rescued 15 cats and kittens in dire medical condition from what appears to be a case of neglect and abandonment.  While such cases are uncommon, they pose a serious health risk to the animals and often require greater resources than any one organization has at one time.

As a member of the Western Colorado Animal Resources Coalition, that includes many of the western slope animal welfare organizations, Second Chance stepped up.  Responding to Montrose's request, Second Chance brought in 5 kittens sick with severe upper respiratory infections.  A second organization, Angels With Paws, took several cats and kittens and, like Second Chance, has made a commitment to nurse these pets back to life. 

Although taking in even a single sick animal is very risky for a shelter and its existing population of pets, these cats really needed help.  Situations such as this represent a balancing act for animal welfare organizations who take on a great deal of expense, both through normal care and additional medical attention, to bring wonderful pets back to health.  Thankfully there is a dedicated isolation area in Second Chance’s new home at Angel Ridge Ranch, whereas in the past Second Chance may not have been able to receive kittens this ill. 

The original group of 15 rescued cats were found in what was described as “deplorable conditions” by Montrose Animal Control.  In addition to the obvious signs of neglect the cats had been abandoned by the evicted tenants of the mobile home.  The couple was located and charged with 15 counts of animal cruelty.  Additionally, in a follow up visit last week two more cats were discovered in the home.  The alleged perpetrators were then charged with two additional counts.  Penalties for a single cruelty to animal charge include fines up to $1,000 and potential jail time.

The 5 kittens received by Second Chance have responded fantastically well to treatment –a testament to the power of a little TLC.  Shelter Manager Heather Hart is happy to announce that they are now ready for adoption.  My name is Blitzen and I am one of the 5 rescued kittens discussed above – I am so looking forward to a home where I can receive the love and attention that I deserve and thrive upon.  I am a tad bit timid, as would be expected from my experiences, but I feel ready to trust and love a new family.

Call the Second Chance Helpline at 626-2273 to report a lost pet, learn about adopting a homeless pet, or about the SCHS Spay/Neuter Financial Assistance, Volunteer & Foster Care, or other Programs.  Visit our shelter pets online: www.adoptmountainpets.org.  Direct Pet Column questions to:  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .  Photos by Real Life Photographs.