A shocking act of violence has left a pet cat paralyzed and a family in distress, as they search for answers.
The Rodriguez family, from Crystal Lake, Illinois, took in their orange cat Timmy last year when he appeared on their doorstep as a stray and never left. The friendly and adventurous cat quickly became a cherished member of the family.
However, on November 9, Timmy’s life changed drastically. As an outdoor cat, he went outside into the family’s backyard one morning, but over an hour later, he returned, dragging himself by his front paws.
Realizing their cat was injured, the family rushed him to the vet, where they received an unexpected and heartbreaking diagnosis: Timmy had been paralyzed by a bullet.
“I was honestly so shocked when they’re like, ‘there’s a bullet in his spine,’” said owner Kylie Rodriguez, speaking to ABC 7 Chicago. “I just don’t know how somebody could be so disgusting to an innocent animal… how could you do that?”
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The person responsible is still unidentified, and Crystal Lake Police are reportedly looking into the matter, though no new details about potential suspects have emerged. The shooting has left the family shaken: “Our kids play back there, you know?” Rodriguez said. “And someone is shooting a gun?”
The injury has had a significant impact on Timmy, who is no longer his playful, adventurous self. “He’s not living his best life,” Rodriguez told WGN-TV. “He seems very sad and like kind of depressed and just frustrated.”
“Our family is devastated,” she told the Daily Herald. “He was the most adventurous, fun, silly kitty, full of so much love. I’ve never experienced a cat quite like Timmy.”
The family plans to take Timmy to a neurologist to explore possible treatments to help him regain his mobility. They have also created a GoFundMe campaign to cover his medical expenses, which has raised over $16,000 so far.
“I am absolutely in awe of all of the EXTREMELY generous donations and heartfelt messages for Timmy!” Rodriguez wrote on the fundraising page. “The community has come together SO strong for Tim!”
In the latest update, Rodriguez mentioned that the suspect is still unknown, but Timmy “seems to be improving every day.”
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It’s horrifying that anyone would shoot a poor cat like this — we hope Timmy makes a recovery and the shooter is brought to justice.
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