Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/paralyzed-kitten-walks-2/
A lot of people might be intimidated to take on the challenge of caring for a disabled or special needs animal – but not Jessica Ruf.
She is more than happy to foster animals with special needs. It’s her calling. That is why she didn’t hesitate to take in a paralyzed kitten after a veterinary friend of hers asked if she could foster him.
The little kitten’s cause for the paralysis was a mystery, but the vet had a suspicion that it may have been caused by a viral infection because the x-rays came back showing that everything was normal. That meant that the little kitten, Renley, had a chance at walking again.
However, in order to do so, there was going to be a lot of hard work required. Thankfully, Jessica was more than up for the task of rehabilitating little Renley.
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At first, the plan was for Renley to stay with Jessica until he regained his ability to walk again. After that, he would be put up for adoption. However, things didn’t quite go according to plan, as Renley quickly worked his way into Jessica’s heart.
Together, the kitten and woman worked hard to get the small feline to regain his muscle strength. The two spent hours doing physical therapy as well as acupuncture therapy. Through it all, Jessica was right there, helping Renley to work through his many exercises such as bicycle kicks.
Eventually, little Renley was able to begin walking, and again, Jessica was right there with him – every step of the way.
Once Renley was able to walk and had regained his strength, it was clear that he was not going anywhere. Jessica had fallen in love with the determined cat, and she wasn’t about to let him go. She happily accepted him as her foster fail, and the two of them are now the best of friends.
Jessica shares photos of Renely all grown up on her Instagram and it’s clear the two are quite happy together.
Watch the video below:
You can keep up with Renley on Jessica’s Instagram, @thekittencarer.
Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog
