12 Saves of 2024 #5: May Ling
May Ling’s story is nothing short of heartbreaking but knowing that she found her happy ending and is spending the holiday in a wonderful home surrounded by love is what’s important.
It was late one September evening, and we had just closed. Jen, one of our staffers, noticed a carrier and a bag next to the gate on her way out. Hearing the distressed cries, she knew.
A large, healthy-looking Siamese was in the carrier. The plastic bag contained cat wipes, a couple of cans of cat food, and a brush. There was a heartbreaking note, so we knew her name was May Ling and that her person had died. How she ended up here, we’ll never know.
Jen tried to soothe May Ling by saying her name over and over. She brought her into the shelter, setting her up in a cozy space. Though May Ling was scared, she was hungry, and dove into her food. It was emotional for both of them, but the good news was that she was safe.
Just a few days later, we found out more to the story. May Ling was microchipped (from 2012!) but the chip was never registered. We traced it back but found nothing. She had a dental with most of her teeth removed, and her right front leg and paw were deformed, which our veterinarian determined was very likely a congenital defect. It caused a mild limp, but she was not in pain and got around well.
May Ling was gorgeous, truly stunning. She loved people, anyone who would give her attention. She loved being pet and brushed and was happy to just be wherever we were. Then, a couple months after she arrived, she found her home.
Jen has been a big supporter of FieldHaven for many, many years. She’s volunteered on multiple levels, from cat care to foster care, transport to outreach, and more. She knew May Ling was the one for her after hearing her story, and when she met her, it was easy to make it official.
YOU helped us fight for May Ling. YOU helped us find her joy and comfort after such heartbreak and fear. YOU helped us give her a normal life, again. Our gratitude runs deep this holiday season.
P.S. The simple fact that we can go above and beyond for cats like May Ling is what keeps us going. Your support allows us to say yes to the hard cases and allows us to keep our belief that all lives are valued. We’re sending merry and warm wishes your way this holiday because you deserve it.
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