“The Glue for Our Family” – Dusty’s Happy Tail
September 3rd, 2025
By Savannah Verdon, Development Manager –
Not long after moving into a new house, William and Ariel lost one of their cats to a urinary blockage. Then, their senior cat experienced a series of urinary issues before being diagnosed with and succumbing to cancer. When their surviving cat, Dusty, began experiencing unusual urinary symptoms, they concluded something was wrong with the mineral content of the house’s water source. But while that would take time to resolve, Dusty’s symptoms were getting worse by the day, and he needed treatment now.
They had spent a lot on treatment for the two cats who passed away, and at the same time, the family had just welcomed a baby. With so much changing in the home, paying for Dusty’s treatment was proving to be a burden on William and Ariel. He needed to have a catheter inserted at the hospital after being stabilized, and then stay in the hospital to be monitored. Being an important member of their family – a big brother to their child and three feline sisters – they would do anything to make his treatment happen.
“Dusty is our sweet snuggle buddy and has been the glue for our family after we lost our senior cat last month. He keeps us energized, racing through the house as he plays, chirps for snuggles, and has been our son’s favorite playmate so far. He’s the best friend we could ask for.”
Dusty’s urinary tract was blocked, and he had developed cystitis. Ariel had brought him to the veterinarian without knowing confidently how they would pay the bill once his treatment was finished, but she couldn’t make him wait any longer. While he was being seen by the veterinarian, she went online and applied to the RedRover Relief Urgent Care grant program, imploring that “Even a small amount would make a huge difference in our ability to stay afloat and prevent the loss of another animal from our household.” When she learned her application had been approved, Dusty was already unblocked and being closely monitored and treated for fever. They could count on your recurring support as a FurEver Friend for help when they needed it most.
Once his fever had subsided and he was ready to return home, Ariel reached out with a happy update on Dusty:
“Dusty came home early this afternoon. He’s making biscuits on my lap as I type this now. We cannot thank you enough for your help getting him the care he needed to bring him back home, happy and healthier. He is doing much better! He’s back to his playful self, off his medication, and enjoying being home again. He’s chasing his kitty sisters around the house, snuggling up at bedtime, and giving our young son tons of laughs!”
All of that, made possible by you. Thank you for being a FurEver Friend to families like Dusty’s!
