MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!
“I have never felt so much love. For the first time, I know what it is like to be loved. I can eat without pain and feel so much better!”
~ Raggedy Ann
My foster mom tells me that it wasn’t my mommies fault. That animal hoarding is part of a disease and that without treatment, can just get worse. Many people who hoard animals, do in fact love their animals, they just become overwhelmed. They also are in denial that they are overwhelmed, so they continue to take in animals and that what results in starvation and deaths. When my foster mom picked me up from the local shelter that took me in, I weighed only three pounds and fifteen ounces. My foster mom says that’s the same weight at a four-month old kitten. I was missing most of my teeth, due to not having enough good healthy food to eat. I had seven remaining ones that are rotting and kept me sick. Once I had my teeth removed, I was able to gain weight properly, my bloodwork came back normal and I am now a healthy cat.
I want people to learn the signs of animal hoarding, so they can report someone if they think they need help. Even if it is a family member, you are our voice. We need you to speak up for us. I’m thankful to whomever called the police. We weren’t safe anymore and without them stepping up, I wouldn’t be here today. According to the ASPCA these are the signs to watch out for:
- They have numerous animals and may not know the total number of animals in their care.
- Their home is deteriorated (i.e., dirty windows, broken furniture, holes in wall and floor, extreme clutter).
- There is a strong smell of ammonia, and floors may be covered with dried feces, urine, vomit, etc.
- Animals are emaciated, lethargic and not well socialized.
- Fleas and vermin are present.
- Individual is isolated from community and appears to be in neglect himself.
- Individual insists all animals are happy and healthy—even when there are clear signs of distress and illness.
Also, I hope that I can inspire people to foster other animals in need. I hear that there are between 900-2,000 cases of animal hoarding reported every year. We would all want to be loved and cared for. Even if we only stay with you for a short time, you can show us to trust again. Please consider opening your home and your heart to animals in need.
I am now looking for a family to call my own. I have so much love to give and want nothing more than to be loved.
Follow Raggedy Ann on her own facebook page.
Raggedy Ann’s Story
“I was hungry for so long. I am so glad that I am hungry no more.”
~ Raggedy Ann
Born: Unknown
Diagnosis: Complications due to severe starvation and lack of veterinary care
Treatment: Managed Care and Dental Work
Medical Costs: $900
Raggedy Ann was part of a large hoarding case in Yuma, AZ. She was the sickest of the 41 kitties removed. Despite her emaciated condition, she showed her thanks by asking for pets. Despite being an adult, she weight merely 3.5 lbs. The focus is slowing and healthily gaining weight and trying to reverse the damage done by years of suffering. Once Raggedy Ann is healthy again, she will have to have extensive dental surgery to remove her few remaining deeply infected teeth. Raggedy Ann has shown everyone, day by day that her will to live and perseverance is immeasurable.
Follow Raggedy Ann on her own facebook page.
