As animal lovers, it’s heartbreaking to witness pets being abandoned, left to fend for themselves on the streets. Thankfully, there are still compassionate people willing to rescue these animals and give them a second chance at life.
Last month, on a sunny afternoon, a kind-hearted woman discovered a cat hiding under her son’s car in a parking lot. The poor feline was seeking shelter from the scorching 100-degree heat, cooling off by lying on the shaded concrete beneath the car.
The woman quickly contacted Cats of San Bernardino, a non-profit animal rescue organization based in California, for help.
A Desperate Cry for Help
Rescuers from the organization arrived at the scene and assessed the situation. Fortunately, the cat wasn’t feral, so they were able to gently approach, touch, and pick him up with ease.
“He was just like, ‘Please, someone take me,’” Jaina from Cats of San Bernardino told The Dodo. “He allowed us to pick him up, and he wasn’t moving.”
The rescuers carefully placed the cat into a carrier and took him to the vet for a thorough examination. Initially, they thought the cat was female due to his malnourished state, but they soon realized he was a male.
“We thought the cat was a female because he was so malnourished, and he had already been neutered,” they explained.
Valentino’s Journey to Recovery
The rescuers named him Valentino, and after further examination, it became clear that he had been abandoned. His previous owners had likely moved away, leaving him to survive on his own. This neglect left him underweight, with matted fur and bald patches across his body.
Valentino had a large bald spot on his forehead that extended to one eye. The vets also found an abscess, causing one of his eyes to remain half-closed.
“We had the abscess on his forehead looked at and started him on antibiotics,” Jaina shared.
With the care of Jaina and Ivy, both volunteers from the rescue organization, Valentino began his healing process.
“He just wanted to let everyone know he’s doing well. He’s responding to the antibiotics, the inflammation is nearly gone, and he’s gaining weight. His new hair is starting to grow back,” they reported with relief.
A Heartwarming Transformation
As Valentino recovered, his personality blossomed. He quickly formed a strong bond with his rescuers, expressing his gratitude in the sweetest way possible.
“His personality changed to this ‘I love you’ mode! Every time we pick him up, he rubs his face on ours as if saying thank you,” Jaina said. “He even kisses my nose. He’s such a lover.”
Valentino now spends every chance he gets snuggling with his rescuers, showing his gratitude and affection.
Looking for a Forever Home
Although the rescuers adore him, Valentino is ready to find his forever home.
“Obviously, we have many other kitties to care for, so Valentino is looking for the perfect home. Someone who’s home a lot, spends time with him, and will give him all the love and attention he deserves. He loves being held and will thrive in a home where he gets 100% of the attention,” Jaina explained.
Valentino’s transformation from an abandoned, malnourished cat to a loving, affectionate companion is truly remarkable. Watch the heartwarming rescue video below to see his journey.
Watch Valentino’s Rescue in the Video Below: