3-legged Cat is Counting his Lucky Stars

"Orion" available for adoption Wednesday at Helen Woodward Animal Center

Rancho Santa Fe, CA - A 3-legged cat named "Orion" is counting his lucky stars and will be available for adoption this Wednesday morning at 11:00 at Helen Woodward Animal Center. Adoption officials are confident that the 2-year-old kitty named after the constellation "Orion" has at least 8 more lives.

"It seemed to be a match made in heaven," says Adoption Manager Tracey Dyer. "Orion was adopted by a family with three children. They told us that he loved the kids and that he didn't worry about riding in the car, which can be difficult for many cats."

Life was going great until Orion slipped out of the house and was struck by a car. The family's veterinarian determined that the cat's left hind leg was badly broken. The expenses to repair the damaged leg were very high. Rather than euthanize the cat, Orion's owners returned him to Helen Woodward Animal Center.

In order to save his life, Orion's leg was amputated. "I totally expected him to be cranky and upset after the surgery," says HWAC medical assistant Janine Mellor. "But when I approached Orion he rolled onto his back so I could rub his belly. He was playful and very affectionate. Orion is a very special cat."

Since the surgery Orion has been received in-home care from a Helen Woodward Animal Center foster family. He will return to the Center on Wednesday from his foster home. After a medical exam he'll become available for adoption.

"This is a prime example of why families must keep their cats indoors," says HWAC spokesman John Van Zante. "We're offering special thanks to those who contribute to our medical fund, allowing us to save the lives of Orion and other pets in-need."

Learn more about dogs and cats that need loving, lifelong homes or pets that need temporary foster care. Visit Helen Woodward Animal Center at 6461 El Apajo Road in Rancho Santa Fe, call 858-756-4117..