Stray Cat Rescued by Ottawa Fire Services Recovering in Ottawa Humane Society Care after Wandering onto the Rideau River
Jan. 31, 2019 – River (A219032), a stray cat rescued last week is recovering at the OHS after he was found on the Rideau River clinging to life. With last week’s bone chilling temperatures, stray animals and pets left outside were at risk of freezing or endangering their lives when seeking warmth.
While River survived this dangerous incident, his recovery won’t be quick or easy. OHS veterinarians – who immediately stitched up River’s wounded face and treated frostbite to his paws and tail – are predicting it will take a couple more weeks for him to recover. Unfortunately, part of his tail had to be amputated due to frostbite. The cost of his medical care is more than $1,500.
With continued support from the community, the OHS is able to provide care to animals like River – just one of the nearly 10,000 animals the OHS helps each year.
“River’s heartbreaking story reminds us why it’s so important to call the City when stray animals are seen in freezing temperatures,” said OHS President & CEO Bruce Roney. “January and February are dangerous months for stray animals, which is reflected in the number of animals who come into our care in such critical condition.”
With so many animals needing support from OHS veterinarians during the winter months, it’s particularly draining on the shelter’s limited resources. The high cost of River’s recovery, coupled with the volume of animals coming into OHS care because of the cold temperatures, means resources are stretched.
To help cover the care that River desperately needs, please visit: ottawahumane.ca/river
A Word About the Ottawa Humane Society:
The Ottawa Humane Society is a registered charity founded in 1888. The society works in and with the community to provide leadership in the humane treatment of all animals, to address the causes of animal suffering, to encourage people to take responsibility for their animal companions, and to provide care for animals who are neglected, abused, exploited, stray, or homeless.
For media inquiries contact:
Allie Holloway, Manager: Outreach
Ottawa Humane Society
613-725-3166, ext. 267
www.ottawahumane.ca