When Minnow (formerly Joe) first arrived at the San Francisco SPCA, he had a serious injury and a long road ahead. Today, he’s a happy, energetic kitten with a loving home, an older sister, and a favorite spot for watching video games.
Minnow came to the SF SPCA with multiple fractures in one of his hind legs. His injuries made him an urgent case for our Shelter Medicine team, who evaluated him and determined that amputation was the best path forward for his comfort and well-being.
Even before his treatment began, Minnow made quite the first impression on one of our team members.
Minnow finds his way home
Elisa, a veterinary assistant on our Shelter Medicine team, noticed his name on the day’s intake list and immediately wanted to learn more. When she met him during his exam, the injured kitten crawled right into her lap and started purring.
“That was the moment I knew my heart had been stolen,” Elisa says.
The Shelter Medicine team cared for Minnow through his surgery and recovery, helping him get ready for the next chapter of his journey. Along the way, Elisa realized she wanted to be part of that chapter.
She adopted Minnow and brought him home, where he quickly settled in with his new family, including his older feline sister, Jinx.
Today, it’s hard to slow this little tripod down. Minnow zooms around the house, wrestles with Jinx, climbs anything he can reach, and watches the world from his favorite windowsill. He also enjoys cartoons, especially Bob’s Burgers, and sitting beside his dad while he plays video games.
“Even though he had to have his injured leg amputated, this doesn’t stop him from being a typical kitten,” Elisa says. “I don’t think he even knows he’s missing a leg.”
Caring for many different needs
Minnow’s story is one example of the many journeys that unfold behind the scenes at the SF SPCA. From the moment an animal arrives, our Shelter Medicine team works to understand what they need, provide treatment, and help prepare them for a healthy future.
“I’m so grateful the SF SPCA takes in the medical cases that other shelters don’t have the capacity to treat,” Elisa says. “Otherwise I would have never found this perfect little dude.”
For Minnow, the right care led to a new beginning. And for Elisa, it led to a new family member with three legs, endless energy, and a very big personality.
Looking to adopt a cat or kitten of your own? See our adoptable cats online or visit our adoption center today!