Spike

Spike was brought to me as a tiny kitten rescued from a confused driver who'd just backed over the kitten and thought it best to 'put him out of his misery'. I did think I was on a mission toward euthanasia when I sped to an emergency vet with the limp but still breathing kitten. To my surprise and delight, the vet said the kitten was suffering from shock and a broken hind leg, both treatable. Fast forward a few months and Spike underwent a final leg surgery to freeze his hind leg in a natural position as it had not responded to healing normally despite several previous painful procedures. That stiff hind leg never stopped Spike who went on to be a seafaring cat that charmed charter fishing captains out of a portion of their catches and delighted passersby used to only seeing dogs enjoy recreational boating. Spike loved to fetch a ball, bird watch from his screen porch, and snuggle up with me in bed every night. I spent a third of my life blessed with Spike's companionship. He and I finally did complete that mission toward euthanasia after he was ravaged by intestinal cancer at the age of 19 1/2 years.