Boomer's story is an interesting one. It started when my parent's saw a black cat in their driveway late one night. The next night, my dad set the have-a-heart trap that we use. Needless to say, I got the phone call from my dad the following morning that he was successful! To our surprise, there was not a black cat in the trap. It was a tabby that we came to call Boomer. And boy, did he hit the jackpot by getting into that trap!

Boomer was 100% feral, meaning he was as wild as they come. He was not a candidate to find a home for as a pet. He still needed to be tested, neutered, and possibly put into a better living situation, if I could come up with something.

To my surprise, Boomer's leukemia/aids test did not come back as I had anticipated. He came back positive for aids. To say that this complicated things for this rescue was the understatement of the year. 

Cats with aids can live long, happy lives. They are, however, much more susceptible to infection because their immune systems are compromised. So Boomer was neutered shortly after, and then came the hard part. I needed to figure out how to proceed with this rescue.

Being a licensed vet tech, and being knowledgeable about feline aids, I knew it was irresponsible to release Boomer back onto the street. Feline aids is contractible from cat to cat. I began looking into cat sanctuaries for cats with aids.

After calling every sanctuary from New York to South Carolina , I found the perfect feline aids sanctuary for Boomer to spend the rest of his days. Aslan's cats in upstate New York was willing to make room for Boomer. The next obstacle was the cost. It was $1,500 to get Boomer into the sanctuary. I pay for all of my rescues out of pocket, and this was a cost I was not prepared for. Lucky for me, I have an amazing support system of family and friends, and a fantastic community whom follow my rescue journeys. I set up a GofundMe for Boomer, and within two weeks, the goal was met!!!! Boomer was getting into his forever home!!! I couldn't have been more grateful for all of the generosity. 

A few weeks later, my dad and I made the trip upstate to bring Boomer to Aslan's cats. We were able to see the two indoor spaces he would have access to, and the secured outdoor space he would be able to enjoy. Simply put, it was perfect.

I still vividly remember how terrified Boomer was when my dad and I were about to leave him at the sanctuary. I felt so bad. He had no idea what was going on, and all I wanted was to do what was best for him. Boomer being as feral as he was, I was never able to touch him. Right before my dad and I went to leave, I reached into the dog crate he was in for the first few weeks to get settled, and I pet him. For a solid few minutes. This feral little guy. I'm convinced he knew. And I believe it was his way of saying thank you. I'll never forget that.

I am still in contact with the sanctuary, and get updates all the time!  The two last photos  in the slideshow are the most recent of Boomer, enjoying his new buddies and fenced backyard. 

By far, my most memorable rescue. 

 

Enjoy life Boomer! <3 

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