Spencer
Spencer was rescued nearly a year ago, in the winter of 2006-2007. Because he was FLV positive, we knew he might have hidden health issues, but FFUR is committed to our no-kill policy, and he was healthy, except for his FLV status. On September 20th, Spencer suddenly became ill and after going through three blood transfusions in the space of 24 hours, we had to make the painful but humane decision to euthanize Spencer, because his red blood cells were not reproducing.
Spencer was an extraordinary cat. He had an excellent life while he was with FFUR: love, comfort, friends, play. His life was a tribute to how we can indeed save the lives of cats who otherwise might not be saved. Maddy and I were with Spencer during his euthanasia, and I held him in my lap as it happened.
Spencer’s life was too short--he was only two at his death--but his life with us was good and happy. Our responsibility to our animal friends is that we take care of them, no matter what. Sometimes that means doing what is difficult for us--letting them go.
Spencer gave us a great deal of love and we gave him a lot of love back. We were glad we could rescue him from his terrible life on the street and we are even more glad that we could give him a death of dignity and comfort. We miss him, we love him and we hope that his story helps others know that the time we have with our animals is precious and fulfilling for both us and them, no matter how long or short it might be.---Victoria Brownworth, exec director, FFUR