Toby’s story is one of loyalty and resilience.
Despite being given up by his family, his determination to return to them was unwavering.
He embarked on a 12-mile journey back to his old home, driven by a deep bond.
However, his family’s reaction was far from welcoming.
Instead of embracing Toby’s incredible act of love, they made a shocking decision to have him euthanized.
“They took him to a shelter and asked them to euthanize him,” Tara Lynn, communications director for the SPCA of Wake County, shared with The Dodo.
“It was just so heartbreaking to know he made it all the way back to his family, and that was their response.”
Fortunately, the public shelter where Toby was taken recognized the gravity of his story and refused to end his life.
They contacted the SPCA, who immediately stepped in to rescue Toby.
The SPCA ensured he received a thorough medical assessment and began the search for a forever home that would appreciate and love him.
Toby’s health was a concern, as he tested positive for feline immunodeficiency virus and had an upper respiratory infection.
The SPCA provided the necessary treatment for his infection, which took some time to heal.
Despite these challenges, Toby showed a warm and affectionate side to the staff, though he was initially hesitant to mingle with other cats.
“Initially, the seven-year-old FIV positive kitty wasn’t very excited about sharing a room with other cats, but he quickly became a volunteer favorite,” the SPCA revealed.
Once Toby recovered and was ready for adoption, his story and picture were shared on social media, leading to an overwhelming response from potential adopters.
Michele Puckett from Raleigh, North Carolina, was one of the many who heard Toby’s story.
She felt an instant connection and rushed to the shelter to meet him. It was a perfect match.
“She had no hesitation whatsoever,” Lynn said about Puckett.
“She was on a job site and just dropped everything to come here.”
Now, Toby enjoys a loving home with two new human companions and two feline siblings.
“He is just so sweet, cuddly, and loving,” Puckett shared with The Dodo.
“He’s also pretty much taken over our bed, as if he’s lived here forever. He loves to relax and lay under our pillows.”
Puckett hopes Toby’s story will raise awareness about the importance of giving pets like him a second chance.
“There are tons of pets who are easily discarded by their families or a breeder,” she said. “I really hope he inspires other people to go out and adopt.”
Toby’s story indeed went viral, capturing hearts worldwide and highlighting the impact of giving a loving home to animals in need.
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