Mike Houilhan accompanied by vet nurses Many Copper, Jenny Proctor & Amy Readthorn once again had a very busy 2 weeks volunteering at the PAWS clinic at the end of September 2024.
Mandy sent in the following report of their visit:
In total we neutered 108 cats as well as treating and caring for several cats and kittens as inpatients.
Below is a lovely success story that occurred during our visit......
Peggy's story:
On our second day, a kitten who had possibly been hit by a car was brought to PAWS. On examination, Mike found a fracture to her left humerus along with nerve damage. She was very weak on her hind limbs which could have been due to bruising to her pelvis. Treatment involved pain relief and strict cage rest together with short periods of physiotherapy and of course lots of cuddles. She was christened Peggy and soon became a favourite with the team. She gradually improved and after 2 weeks was moving around normally. Peggy now lives happily in the PAWS garden with 2 of her inpatient friends Charlie & Mouse where food and water are always available.
During our stay we all celebrated Mike's birthday with a good meal out accompanied by Lindsay, volunteers Di & Ian and PAWS fund raisers Maureen & Jim.
Since last year, a new shed has been erected in the PAWS garden which is a great asset for caring for inpatients. As always we greatly appreciated all the volunteers and trappers. Special thanks to Di, Faye & Hara who were always there to help during our stay.
We found the majority of cats to be healthy with a good weight. We noticed quite a few ear mites so have suggested a spot on treatment for each stray cat in the future.
Post Script from PAWS:
Lindsay as Director of PAWS was delighted to meet up again with Mike and team during their second week. For the last ten years the support and loyalty to PAWS shown by Mike and Mandy has been remarkable. Mike has now decided to retire from veterinary work in the UK so will no longer be volunteering on Paxos. Everyone will miss his kindness, devotion and of course his wonderful Irish sense of humour! We wish Mike every success with his new interest in Forestry and much happiness for the next chapter of his life. We also send him a HUGE THANK-YOU.
