Hi, I’m Raul. I recently joined Courtney Piscatelli at Angel Animal Services as the new Sunday feeder down at Terminal Island. I’ve always had a heart for animals, but I didn't expect my new role to put me right in the middle of a life-saving mission so quickly. I was on the Island when I found Smokey in his hour of need, and we want to share his story with you.
The Emergency
Last Sunday, May 3, Smokey, a former feral survivor from Terminal Island, was found almost lifeless. After a lifetime of fighting for every meal and surviving the elements, he had finally crashed. Under Courtney Piscatelli's mentorship I was there to help rush him to the VEG ER in Torrance.
Smokey’s Battle
Smokey has been through the unthinkable. He was recently attacked by a raccoon, resulting in a severe abscess behind his eyeball and sinus cavity. The infection was so aggressive it spread to his bone, leaving him unable to close his jaw or swallow properly. This tough boy was down to a mere 4 pounds.
On May 6, Smokey underwent major surgery at All Pets in San Pedro for laceration repair and extensive dental work. Despite the pain, the vet team fell in love with him. They even gave him a "bravery" award, noting that he was "making biscuits" right up until he was taken back for anesthesia.
The Cost of a Miracle
Smokey’s emergency care and surgery have totaled over $4,300. We are incredibly grateful to Monica and Juli for stepping up to cover these immediate costs, but now we must raise the funds to pay that account back. As of today, we have only raised about $240.
Those initial donations were life-saving; they allowed us to get the imaging that changed Smokey’s outlook from "likely euthanasia" to a definitive treatment plan.
A New Chapter
Smokey has officially retired from the streets. He will not be returning to Terminal Island. Instead, he will remain in long-term foster hospice care with Courtney as his "momma." It’s a beautiful full circle: Smokey was the feral cat who one day decided to stop just eating and start asking for love, choosing Courtney as his person with head bonks and purrs.
How You Can Help
As of May 7, Smokey is awake, eating, and cuddling in Courtney’s lap. He has a very long recovery road ahead, but our rescue funds are depleted.
Donate: Every dollar goes directly toward Smokey’s $4,300 medical debt.
Share: Please share this link with friends, family, and fellow animal lovers.
There are many others down at the island like-Grey kitty, Oliver, Tigger, Mustache, and the rest of the crew who deserve this same chance. Courtney has been dedicated to these cats for over six years, and every bit of support helps us keep showing up for them.
Rescue is rough, but as Smokey proves every time he purrs, every single life is worth it. Thank you for standing up for the cats of Terminal Island.