For nearly two years, Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter (WILCO) did not have a resident veterinarian. So, Firehouse’s Round Rock vets filled the gap for our beloved nonprofit shelter up in Georgetown. The veterinarian team rotated shifts, each making a weekly visit to give free medical care for the animal shelter’s dogs and cats.
We did wellness exams. We addressed a limping dog in one case. And we helped with medical records and recommendations. We even brought some pets back to Firehouse for necessary (and free) surgery. After all, Firehouse’s overarching community goal is for every shelter pet to be healthy enough for adoption.
It was during one of these visits that Dr Davies crossed paths with a tiny kitten who would change her life. During one of her shifts, Dr Davies encountered a brave – but tiny – kitten. She weighed only ¾ of a pound and had severe eye infections. One of her eyes had already ruptured and atrophied. The other was following a similar path due to an infection.
The kitten was named Cici. “I did not think she was going to make it,” says Dr Davies. “So, I didn’t want her sitting alone in a kennel.”
Dr Davies took Cici home to offer her support and as much care as possible. Her family was delighted! “My kids are really good with cats,” she notes. “They were super excited to have her (Cici) in the house.”
“We already have two dogs, four cats, and a snake,” Dr Davies adds, laughing. “So, bringing Cici home was definitely an uptick, but we couldn’t leave her alone overnight.”
Dr Davies offered to be a medical foster parent for the long term. Each day, she brought Cici to work with her.
The Firehouse team jumped in to help. She was swaddled on someone’s chest all day long for a full month.
Cici was sick for a long time. She was treated for parasites, gastrointestinal issues, and other ailments.
This love, (literal and figurative) warmth, and devotion kept Cici strong and determined.
Though initially intending to find her a new home, Dr Davies’ household grew deeply attached to Cici, especially her husband. Ultimately, they decided to keep her.
Now about a year and a half old and 10 pounds, Cici is thriving. Her blindness doesn’t hinder her playful spirit or her quality of life. She runs around the house and plays with her feline siblings, showing that blind cats can lead fulfilling, joyful lives.
Dr Davies, her family, and the Firehouse Round Rock team created a loving environment where Cici could overcome, survive, and thrive!
Cici’s story is one of many that highlight Firehouse’s commitment to giving every pet the chance to lead a healthy, happy life. Whether it’s providing free care for shelter animals or supporting families with their own pets, our team is here to make a difference.
Craving more heartwarming stories? 🐾 Dive into Gator’s tail-wagging journey and don’t miss Beethoven’s inspiring triumph.💕 From challenges to forever homes, these tales will warm your soul! 🐶✨
Inspired by Cici’s story? Contact us to learn how you can support local shelters or give a rescue pet the loving home they deserve. If your pet needs care, our team is here to help every step of the way.
