Injured kitten recovering and looking for a home

A Western University veterinarian was finishing up her day at the Upland Animal Shelter, when Skippy arrived.

Skippy, a 3-month-old male domestic short hair kitten, was suffering from a severe infection. His back left leg and most of his tail had also been mangled.

He was evaluated and even though the veterinarian was ready to leave for the day, she agreed to do surgery.

Skippy's leg was removed as well as 75 percent of his tail.

He spent two days recovering in the veterinary clinic at the shelter.

Skippy went to live with Brenda Thall, a volunteer at the shelter, for medical foster care to complete his recovery.

When Skippy first arrived at Thall's house, he was not able to sit up without falling to his left side, where his leg was amputated, Thall said.

"It didn't take him long to adapt," Thall said. "He began to use his little nub of a tail to balance himself and he soon mastered sitting up. From there it was rapid progress."

Skippy learned how to get onto the couch and climb stairs, Thall said.

"He now plays chase with my other foster kittens and you would never know he is missing a leg," Thall said. "He runs, jumps and plays just like everyone else. He is very loving, enjoys having his ears rubbed and has a soft meow when he thinks he is being ignored."

Jon Knowlton, the city's animal services supervisor, asks that anyone interested in adopting Skippy email him at jknowlton@ci.upland.ca.us and describe the home life they can provide.

Skippy is neutered, microchipped and is up to date on all of his shots.

Donations can also be made to the Shelter at 1275 San Bernardino Road to help injured and sick pets entering the shelter.

Knowlton said the donation needs to be designated for the medical fund.