Frances Case was drawn to a touching Facebook post shared by Seattle Area Feline (SAFe) Rescue about a brave black cat named Courage, who had endured severe mistreatment.
According to Shelley Lawson, Development and Communications Director for SAFe Rescue, Courage initially lived outdoors in a rural part of Eastern Washington. A kind older man did what he could to care for the cats that appeared on his property.
Courage had a routine of visiting this man’s home for meals over several years. However, in 2015, she disappeared abruptly. Four-year-old Courage eventually returned, bearing the signs of horrific cruelty.
As Shelley recounts, “She somehow found her way back home from wherever she was taken, but she was injured and bleeding.” Someone had cruelly cut off her ears and tail.
Her caretaker tended to her wounds, offering first aid, and over time, Courage healed. Three years following the incident, the elderly caretaker realized his limitations in continuing to look after Courage and other cats.
Good Samaritans then sought the help of SAFe Rescue. “We thought she would be traumatized and fearful after everything she’d been through,” Shelley comments.
“But Courage surprised us with her resilience; she was a little kitty with a formidable purr.”
Upon her arrival at the rescue on June 25, 2024, a medical examination uncovered that Courage’s ear infections stemmed from having lost her protective ear flaps and revealed other health issues from her life on the streets.
Shelley explains how animal lovers united, extending warm wishes and contributing to SAFe Rescue’s Medical Fund to ensure Courage received the necessary care.
During her stay, Courage was treated for various infections, spayed, and underwent dental and eye surgeries.
Despite undergoing many medical procedures, Courage remained joyful and affectionate, forming a special bond with Shelley, who offered to foster her. Her playful demeanor, despite past abuse, showed she was a typical cat seeking love and comfort.
“When an animal experiences such trauma, it’s common to assume they’ll remain broken and mistrustful,” Shelley remarks. “Yet, Courage showed us resilience and greets every day with a beautiful purr.”
Once Courage was prepped for adoption, Frances from Seattle contacted the rescue to schedule a meeting. Frances had thoughtfully considered the decision, knowing Courage deserved an exceptional home.
Sunday came, and Frances spent about 45 minutes with Courage, savouring the opportunity to meet this cat she’d only seen in photos.
“It was special,” Frances recalls. “Meeting this precious cat was such a gift.” Frances was quickly charmed by Courage’s vibrant personality and chose to adopt her.
Shelley, who nurtured Courage for months, sent Frances home with some toys to ease the transition for Courage.
More than a month has passed since Courage was adopted, and she’s thriving. “I can’t believe she’s 7 years old,” Frances muses. “She still plays like a kitten!”
Having transitioned from a life of homelessness, Courage now enjoys a safe forever home where she watches birds and squirrels, cozies up in her favorite tunnel, and eats to her heart’s content.
Adjusting to shared meals with the other cats took some time due to Courage’s past.
“She sometimes is a bit intimidating because she’s had to fend for herself,” Frances explains. “She charges at the other cats, but we’re working on helping them see each other as family, not foes.”
Because of her prior abuse, Courage needs regular ear cleanings—a task she’s not fond of—but she is otherwise a happy cat loving her new life.
“I think people would be surprised by her vibrant spirit and outgoing personality,” Frances shares. “People might expect she wouldn’t want to be around humans, but she does!”
Shelley, who named Courage, is delighted that she continues to live up to her name, settling so well into her new environment with Frances.
“Courage is a delightful companion,” Shelley remarks. “She reminded me to appreciate each day and brightened my days as much as I comforted her.”
For Frances, Courage has become a cherished family member, and she’s grateful to be part of the journey that helped this special cat recover from cruelty.
Both Frances and Shelley believe in the resilience of cats, noting how they recover from dire situations, stressing the importance of considering cats like Courage who differ from the norm.
Shelley encourages, “When adopting, take a moment to consider the shy, the scruffy, or the unique ones. One might become your best friend!”
For Frances, Courage’s past and unique appearance didn’t deter her, allowing her to open her heart to a truly special companion.
“Being part of this with the people who cared for her makes me feel I’m part of something bigger,” Frances reflects. “I can’t express how happy she makes me. She means the world to me.”
To keep up with Courage’s journey, you can follow her on Instagram.
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