A tiny black-and-white kitten on Vancouver Island is being brave as she prepares to lose one of her legs. Found abandoned and brought in by a Good Samaritan, Charlotte was severely dehydrated, flea infested and anemic, with a broken front leg.

“The poor thing – she’s such a cutie! She was in pretty rough shape when she came into our care,” says BC SPCA Alberni-Clayoquot Branch manager Irene Towell. “Her leg can’t be repaired because it’s an old injury, but despite any pain or discomfort, Charlotte is a friendly sweetheart who’s all about getting her cuddles once she warms up to you.”

About four months old, the kitten must have the broken front leg amputated, but will still be able to live an active, happy life after surgery and recovery, Towell says.

“We just want her to have a second chance after having such a hard start to her young life,” Towell says. “After she’s recovered, she’ll be ready for a loving, forever home as a ‘tri-pawed’ furry family member.”

Medical costs for Charlotte are expected to exceed $2,000. A non-profit organization, the BC SPCA relies primarily on public donations to carry out its life-saving work in helping B.C.’s most vulnerable animals. If you can help Charlotte and other animals like her at the Alberni-Clayoquot SPCA, you can donate online at spca.bc.ca/medicalemergency or in person at 4936 Broughton St., Port Alberni.

The British Columbia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is a not-for-profit organization reliant on public donations. Our mission is to protect and enhance the quality of life for domestic, farm and wild animals in B.C.