In Memory of Henry 4/3/2018 – 8/19/2020
As a cat living on the streets of McAllen, Texas, who knows what Henry endured before being rescued by a good Samaritan. We do know when he was found he was suffering from a URI, severe stomatitis, and mange plus struggling with feline leukemia. Henry found his way to a rescue in Dallas and to a foster mom who sought veterinary care and treatments while looking for a permanent home for this rough around the edges street boy! Shadow Cats had room at the end of April and Henry arrived. He received veterinary care immediately for his stomatitis (all his teeth had to come out), his other health issues, and he also had a little nip and tuck procedure – he was neutered!
Our Henry, or Henners as he was affectionately known, showed some signs of improvement but has struggled over the past months with many other health issues. Henry was a bit of a loner. He did not want to cuddle with other cats, but he did like to know other kitties were around. He always seemed to look fierce but that was the street life he had known. To us he was just Henry, not fierce at all. He was a big lug of a black panther who wanted love and affection and to be carried over their shoulders by the kitty nannies. When Henry was feeling good he would play with toys and was even known to zoom around Cookies Place, sliding across the floor. He loved to nap on this one special scratching board. It was so funny to see. Henry made us smile, because under that fierce exterior he was a big softy!
Over the last few months Henry knew what love was. He was never hungry (he loved boiled chicken!), always cared for, had a comfy bed, and a special scratching board. He was safe and we hope his street days were a very distant memory to him.
Sweet Henry, we tried everything we could to make you feel better. We wanted you to stay with us, but there were too many health issues to overcome. We know, dear boy, you were very tired and the fight was just too hard on you. Henry crossed the Rainbow Bridge today, cradled in the loving arms of the kitty nannies as they were whispering and quietly singing in his ears that he was the best kitty ever. He passed ever so gently and peacefully. Henry, you were loved so very much. Although your time with us was short, you stole our hearts and took a piece of them with you.
Henners was an old soul but he was young in years. He is going to have lots of stories to tell all those that have gone before so we know he will be quite the story teller at the Rainbow Bridge. Many thanks to his foster mom, his sponsors, our volunteers and caregivers who made this boy feel very special, just the way he should have felt – loved by many near and far. You were special, Henry, our black panther, Rest easy, dear sweet boy. No more suffering. Soar and fly high on your angel wings.
Henry had 4 Sponsors
Karen Labos
Jennifer Sykes
Amy Juried
Michelle Robinette