The BC SPCA is urgently reminding pet guardians who live in high-rise buildings to protect their animals in response to a recent incident. Destiny, a beautiful, petite calico cat, broke her leg after tumbling off a balcony in January. She was brought to a veterinarian by a good Samaritan who found her. The veterinarian was able to track down the owner and Destiny had her broken leg put in a cast.
“It happens more often than people think,” says Nicole McBain, manager of the Burnaby BC SPCA. “Pet guardians need to ensure balconies are enclosed so animals can’t fall through the bars or off the railing. They should also make sure any open windows have screens to prevent animals from falling out.”
Unfortunately, after her cast came off, Destiny broke her leg again. The guardian surrendered her and she is being cared for at the Burnaby BC SPCA. “Sadly the second break to Destiny’s leg was much worse than the first,” says McBain. “The leg was no longer viable and had to be amputated.”
In addition to the surgery to remove Destiny’s leg, her care has required x-rays, pain medication, IV fluids and antibiotics and she will also be spayed and receive vaccinations.
McBain says that despite everything Destiny has been through she has continued to be an affection little cat. “Everyone who has been caring for this sweet cat has fallen madly in love,” says McBain.
Destiny has already been in the BC SPCA’s care for three weeks and will be at the shelter for another two depending on how quickly she heals from the surgery before she is ready for adoption.