For The Love Of Paws has always been a beacon of hope in our community, going above and beyond to ensure no animals go hungry or are left behind. Their dedication was once again proven recently.
A few weeks ago, a call came in from a Vietnam Vet hospitalized with no one to look after his 5 feline companions. So profound was his concern for their safety that he contemplated leaving the hospital, ignoring medical advice.
Ted Pankiewicz Jr., the Co-owner and Founder of For The Love Of Paws, visited the man in his hospital room. There, they discussed all the necessary details about his apartment and the care of the five cats. Pankiewicz Jr. took on the responsibility with the keys in hand, ensuring the felines were well taken care of. Approximately one and a half weeks later, the vet returned home.
Regrettably, the man’s health took a downturn, and he was back in the hospital within a week. Pankiewicz Jr. stepped in again, tending to the cats in subsequent weeks. Simultaneously, he communicated with the man’s sisters from Georgia and North Carolina, keeping them updated about their brother’s medical status and discussing the potential outcomes – either returning home or transitioning to the VA hospital.
Two weeks into this ordeal, the decision was made: the man couldn’t return to his apartment or manage his care, let alone that of five cats.
“After some emotional conversations, he finally accepted his situation and agreed to surrender the cats so long as he got to say goodbye to them,” Pankiewicz Jr told Sebastian Daily.
Gratefully, For The Love Of Paws joined forces with The Humane Society of Vero Beach & Indian River County, ensuring all five cats found a nurturing environment together!
In a touching gesture, the Veteran’s sisters, in collaboration with Pankiewicz Jr. and the medical team at Cleveland Clinic Hospital, arranged for a heartfelt farewell. The cats were brought to the hospital entrance in carriers, allowing the Veteran a few precious moments to bid each one goodbye.
Upon arrival at the humane society, Pankiewicz Jr. and the ailing man’s sisters were given the opportunity to capture photos of the cats in their new environment. The room was thoughtfully designed with ramps, ledges, cubbies, and bridges to ensure the felines had ample space to roam and play.
These images served a heartfelt purpose: to reassure the Veteran that his cherished felines were not confined to small cages but instead were in a nurturing and spacious setting.
