Puuurrmanent Mental Health Hero

By Taylor Mundy

This past year has been extremely difficult on everyone. COVID-19 put a serious emotional strain on all of us. We often hear people share what helped them get through these challenging times.

Was it ZOOM dates? Or learning how to make sourdough? Nope. It was pets.

For many, our animals became our mental health heroes. The bond we share with our pets is so powerful. They bring us comfort, companionship and motivation.

That is exactly what happened with Kailyn and her sweet kitty, Rumble. But before they could meet, Rumble had his own wellness journey to conquer.

Weighing just one pound, Rumble and his siblings were brought to safety at the SPCA. They were only four weeks old so they all needed around-the-clock foster care. The kitties were treated for their lice and they all started to make great improvements.

Except for Rumble.

His poor little eyes were filled with green gunk. He was struggling to find and use the litterbox and was suffering from an upset belly. With some special food and medication, slowly but surely Rumble’s health began to come around.

Finally, Rumble was medically cleared and ready for his forever family. He patiently watched as his sisters and brothers were scooped up and adopted. But when would Rumble meet his match?

Well, it turns out, it happened by complete accident… or maybe fate. “I was able to meet him by absolute luck,” shared Kailyn, Rumble’s fur-parent. “I remember the employee at the Lily Pat Cat Lounge (one of the awesome adoption partners of the SPCA) was worried he’d be the last one to be adopted as he had some health concerns, so naturally I was drawn to him, the odd one out always has the biggest place in my heart. Boy, did I ever get lucky!”

“This past year has been one of the toughest for me and my mental health,” Kailyn continued. “Rumble has been by my side through it all. I noticed after we brought him home he was very unique. He has a perfect heart shaped spot on his back and this has always symbolized the love and joy he’s brought into my life since day one.”

Rumble is a constant companion and makes Kailyn laugh every day. “He is the funniest, ditsiest cat I’ve ever met. He taught me that not all cats land on their feet but somehow are smart enough to learn to give ‘high five.’ He also taught me that snuggles are only acceptable if mom is the big spoon. It’s never a dull moment with him around. He is a fan favourite to anyone who comes to visit.”

Because Rumble has made such an impact on Kailyn’s life with his unconditional love, she decided to make hers unconditional as well. “I even got a portrait of his precious face tattooed on me,” Kailyn smiled. “Thank you for giving me the opportunity to love him forever.”

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Taylor Mundy

Taylor is the Communications & Development Officer with the Nova Scotia SPCA and proud adoptive fur-mama to Bonnie and Clyde. She is passionate about raising awareness and funds for local animals in need.