Urgent Appeal For Veterinary Care Of Tortured, Burned Cat

INKSTER (WWJ) - A local animal organization is turning to the community for help with the medical treatment of a 7-month-old cat that was found with severe burns over half of her body.

The cat, nicknamed "Hope," was found two weeks ago alongside a dumpster in Inkster, according to Tail Wagger's 1990. Hope was visibly burned over her entire back and was emaciated.

An 85-year-old resident found Hope and took her home. The resident fed Hope and was able to get her to put on some weight, but her burns were too severe to heal without proper medical intervention.

So, the resident turned to Tail Wagger's, hoping they could save Hope's life. Laura Zain, Tail Wagger's founder, said Hope arrived at their facility in horrific condition.

"In my 25 years of doing animal rescue and helping animals in need, this is by far the most severe, sadistic, and sickening animal cruelty that I have ever seen," Zain said in a statement.

Hope's back and sides had open flesh wounds covered in blood, along with her ears even being burnt. Despite all her injuries, Zain said Hope began purring and kneading her feet when she was petted, showing her will to survive. It was at that moment that the team decided she deserved the chance to live a quality life.

With wounds too infected and severe for Tail Wagger's to treat, Hope was rushed to Sheehy Animal Hospital for care. After veterinarians examined Hope, they gave the thumbs up for surgery. Two hours later, Hope emerged with a cleaned up wound, bandages and pain medication to keep her comfortable.

The doctor who treated Hope confirmed that the feline was tortured by someone who set her on fire.

"Whoever would get their thrills out of torturing a cat like this needs to be punished," Zain said.

Tail Wagger's is now pleading with the community for the sake of Hope -- to consider making a donation toward her long-term medical care. Zain said they released images of Hope's injuries to show the dire need for help.

"The pictures attached are very graphic, for which I apologize," Zain said in an email to WWJ Newsradio 950. "But we need to let the public know we are asking for help to cover medical care of this cat."

Click here to see photos of Hope. (WARNING: The images are very graphic and might be offensive to some viewers.)

Zain said any donation is appreciated and will help, as Hope's medical bills will exceed a few thousand dollars.

Financial contributions can be made by calling Tail Wagger's at 734-855-4077 or online at www.tailwaggers1990.org.