Saving Raggedy Ann, Part 2: The Recovery

Yesterday we introduced you to the amazing Raggedy Ann, an innocent victim of animal hoarding. From the comments we received it's obvious she continues to touch hearts everywhere.

As promised, today we present part 2 of Mudpie's exclusive interview with Ann as she tells us about how life has changed since being rescued, her ongoing recovery, and her hopes for the future. (If you missed part one yesterday, you can read it here.)

Mudpie: What's life like for you today?

Raggedy Ann: My life is very different now. I have a clean home that isn’t overcrowded with other pets and doesn’t smell like pee or poop. My litter box gets cleaned twice a day, or more if it is needed. I really appreciate that cause let’s be honest, who wants to step in a dirty litter box. I have food brought to me multiple times a day, sometimes even while I’m still in bed. Oh did I mention, I have a heated bed. My foster mom keeps calling me “The Princess and the Pea”, whatever that means. I just know that it’s really soft and comfy, especially since my fur had to be shaved because I was so badly matted. I tried really hard to clean myself, but could never get ahead. Now I have no problems grooming myself. I actually find it really peaceful and relaxing.

What struggles are you still facing?

Right now I am still fighting an infection in my mouth from my rotting teeth. They soon will be coming out so that should clear up soon. The biggest challenge I’ve faced is the result of the tremendous malnutrition that clearly went on for a long time. I am extremely anemic. Doc says my levels were so bad, I should have had a blood transfusion. Thankfully the rescue that took me in, Saving One Life, told my mommy to start giving me chicken liver to help me gain more iron in my blood. So far it is working. I’m not where a normal kitty should be yet but am on my way.

Now that I am gaining weight back at a healthy rate, I am feeling better and getting up more and exploring my room more. My foster mom opens the window for me every day so I can sit in the windowsill and watch the birdies or lizards run by. The more I get up and explore, they say the more muscle I will build.

What are your hopes for the future? Do you think you'll be able to live in a forever home one day?

I hope that my original mommy gets the help that she needs, so no other kitties have to suffer like I did. I’m so happy that Saving One Life took me in and never gave up on me. I’m thankful for my foster mom, even when she has to give me yucky medicine, because she has always made sure I’ve had food to eat and a warm bed to snuggle up in.

Wouldn’t it be purrfect to find a furrever home. My foster mom tells me about it every day. That I will never know what it is like to go hungry again, that I will always have a warm bed of my own and that I will always know love. Which to her means, kisses. I’m still not 100% sure of them, but they are starting to grow on me.

What do you want people to learn from your story?

I want people to learn the signs of animal hoarding, so they can report someone if they think they need help. Even if it is a family member, you are our voice. We need you to speak up for us. I’m thankful to whomever called the police. We weren’t safe anymore and without them stepping up, I wouldn’t be here today. According to the ASPCA these are the signs to watch out for:

· They have numerous animals and may not know the total number of animals in their care.
· Their home is deteriorated (i.e., dirty windows, broken furniture, holes in wall and floor, extreme clutter).
· There is a strong smell of ammonia, and floors may be covered with dried feces, urine, vomit, etc.
· Animals are emaciated, lethargic and not well socialized.
· Fleas and vermin are present.
· Individual is isolated from community and appears to be in neglect himself.
· Individual insists all animals are happy and healthy—even when there are clear signs of distress and illness.

Also, I hope that I can inspire people to foster other animals in need. I hear that there are between 900-2,000 cases of animal hoarding reported every year. We would all want to be loved and cared for. Even if we only stay with you for a short time, you can show us to trust again. Please consider opening your home and your heart to animals in need.

How can we all help with your recovery?

Well, my foster mom has been sharing with me all the nice letters and cards people have been sending. I love how many people all over the world are rooting for me. I just got a beautiful blanket and I hear a sweater is on its way to me, too. My recovery isn't over yet but all the support and love has made a huge difference. Something that would help is remembering I am not the only one who has had such a bad experience. Saving One Life just took another six sweet kitties from the same shelter who were in another hoarding situation. You can learn more about them by visiting their Facebook page Six Sweet Souls Saved https://www.facebook.com/SOLsixsweetsavedsouls/.

Lastly, I want everyone to know that I appreciate all the support. As much as my foster mom and rescue love me, saving a kitty like me isn't cheap. Saving One Life has given me world class care and the financial support from our many followers has made that easier for sure.

Thank you, Raggedy Ann, for sharing your story with us over the past couple days. Your incredible courage and beautiful heart are an inspiration to everyone, and we wish you nothing but happiness and love from here on out.