Pickles’ journey has been anything but easy. When I first found him, he had an embedded collar and was in rough shape. Hoping he was just lost, I called the number on his tag, only to be met with laughter and confirmation that he’d been left behind during a move on purpose. We cared for his wounds and tried to find him a new home, but before we could, Pickles disappeared. Maybe someone picked him up? He was a young cat after all... someone may have beaten us to finding him a home? Either way, we didn't see him for several years.

When Pickles finally resurfaced, he was still recognizable, but now a true Tom—tough, wary, and clearly having lived a hard life, a problem that we addressed with a quick TNR. He also was pretty feral, not trusting people, especially men in black shoes. I personally thought I failed him. I should have looked harder, made sure! So I tried to correct that wrong and set out to earn his trust. I started with food. I would sit away from him as he ate, morning, night... inching closer as he'd allow. It was a long process, a three year process of earning this furry creature’s trust in humans back. One night he surprised me by climbing into my lap and from that moment, Pickles chose us as his family. We brought him with us when we moved and made him a full-time indoor cat, giving him the safety and love he deserved.

Recently, Pickles began having trouble with his eyes. Despite our efforts, his right eye has now ruptured and needs emergency extraction, while his left eye has a detached lens needing additional surgery. He’s otherwise healthy and full of life, and I can’t bear the thought of losing him when treatment is possible. The funds raised will go directly to his surgery, medication, and follow-up care, giving Pickles the chance to heal and enjoy his new life as a mostly blind kitty. Any support you can offer means the world to us. Thank you for helping Pickles get the care he needs.