My name is Katherine, and I'm fundraising on behalf of a close friend of mine. My friend, Alison, is seeking guidance and resources for a senior cat currently in her family's care. Earlier this year, Alison and her family took in a stray cat who wandered onto their property. After gaining his trust, they brought him to VCA Animal Hospital, where a microchip revealed that his name is Sox, he is approximately 11 years old, and he has a registered owner from Milpitas. Sox was found in San Leandro and had been missing for nearly two years.

The original owner was contacted and initially expressed interest in taking Sox back, but ultimately stated that she and her family were unable to do so due to personal circumstances. It was agreed that Alison's family would care for him in the meantime, with the understanding that the owner would help with veterinary expenses and possibly take him back in the future. Unfortunately, after receiving estimates for Sox's medical care, the owner stopped responding and has not been in contact for several months.

A veterinary exam revealed that Sox is FIV+ and has severe dental disease requiring multiple extractions. The estimated cost of treatment was far beyond what Alison's family can afford, potentially reaching into the tens of thousands of dollars, with additional medical issues still unknown. They have explored financial, insurance options, and assistance from the original owner without success.

Alison's family currently has four FIV-negative cats, making long-term care more complicated (beyond their limited financial capacity). They are doing what they can to keep Sox comfortable--helping him gain weight, feeding soft food, and providing supplements--but his medical needs remain urgent and he is likely in significant pain.

While there are some questions about Mr. Sox's legal ownership, Alison and her family would like to help Mr. Sox in the immediate term with the necessary medical intervention he so desperately needs.

Ultimately, Alison and her family want what's best for Sox: a healthy, pain-free life in a loving home to live out his golden years. I'm reaching out on their behalf to see if we can get help for Mr. Sox in this situation.

Thank you for taking the time to read and feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions or recommendations (or someone who could provide a longer-term, loving, safe home to Sox!)!