Tiny but Mighty

By Taylor Huestis

This is Tiny Tim. And he is just like the beloved and brave character in a Christmas Carol. Faced with adversity, Tiny Tim’s optimistic outlook inspired everyone here at the SPCA.

Found as a stray kitten, Tiny Tim was only a few weeks old. Sadly, his front leg was broken.

Now, normally kittens this young would be learning how to run and play. But not Tiny Tim. His leg was broken so badly that we thought it may need to be amputated.

Our fabulous veterinarian, Dr. Griffin, took Tiny Tim into surgery. Thankfully, with her experience and expertise, she was able to save his leg.

Tiny Tim’s future looked bright and positive. But he also tested positive for something else… Panleukopenia.

Panleukopenia is a deadly disease that requires around-the-clock supportive care. It is highly contagious so he needed to be away from other animals while he received treatment. Tiny Tim ended up going into foster care with Sandra, our Provincial Director of Animal Care.

After two weeks of hard work and hope, we all sighed with relief. Tiny Tim had recovered! He was officially ready for his next chapter.

That’s when Tiny Tim met Ruqiah and Haya.

“We’ve always wanted to adopt a kitten but when we first saw him we knew he was the one,” they exclaimed. “He was just so adorable and too cute. We started petting him and playing with him and he was responding so good and was comfortable around us as if it wasn’t the first time we met!”

“The healing process after his surgeries was extremely good,” they continued. “His leg has recovered completely and he plays around as if it was never injured. He is such an active cat and he likes jumping and climbing around.”

In addition to adding more laughter into their lives, Tiny Tim has also taught the family some valuable life lessons.

“He taught us to never give up and that eventually everything is gonna be alright,” they smiled. “He is indeed our little fighter!”

Just like in A Christmas Carol, Tiny Tim is an important symbol of how your actions can change someone’s life. He embodies the true spirit of the holidays and our community coming together.

Speaking of community… we have a lot of people to thank this year.

Thank you to our fosters who open your heart and homes.
Thank you to our volunteers who give your talent and time.
Thank you to our thrift supporters who shop or donate goodies.
Thank you to our pet patients and loving families at our hospitals and clinics.
Thank you to our advocates who read these stories, raise awareness, and report cruelty.
Thank you to our donors who give generously, fundraise, and drop off supplies.
Thank you to our students who are investing in animal welfare education.
Thank you to our adopters who give second chances to deserving pets.
And last but certainly not least, thank you to the families who do the right thing and reach out for help.

We are honoured to do this work. On behalf of Tiny Tim and everyone here at the SPCA, thank you for your loyal support.

We hope you enjoy these Paw Print stories every month and hope you have a wonderful holiday season.

Taylor Huestis

Taylor is the Communications & Development Officer with the Nova Scotia SPCA and proud adoptive paw-rent to Bonnie and Boy. She is passionate about raising awareness and funds for local pets and loving families. Connect with Taylor at thuestis@spcans.ca or 902-222-0378 today.