RIP Geronimo Johnson
Yesterday, our cat care supervisor, Maritza, did not hesitate to take in Geronimo Johnson, a cat who was malnourished, suffering from urine burns, and severely matted with feces. Geronimo had been rescued by local animal control agencies, and it was believed that Geronimo may have been confined to a cage for an unknown period of time.
Maritza planned on having our medical care team sedate Geronimo at around 3 p.m. to remove Geronimo’s matted fur. Hours before, however, Geronimo’s condition worsened.
Lab work determined that Geronimo was diabetic. He was dehydrated and was administered IV fluids. Maritza stood by Geronimo’s side hoping he’d recover.
Shortly before the work day ended, we shared Geronimo’s story with our social media followers. Unbeknownst to Geronimo, many individuals joined us in wishing him a speedy recovery.
“Sending Geronimo love and encouragement from Santa Cruz,” one follower wrote.
“Geronimo reminded me of all the animals out there who need help,” Maritza said, “that our job as a rescue is never over, and that an animal’s love is so sincere. Despite his condition, he was still as sweet as can be. He was a fighter, and that only pushed us to try harder.”
Today, we move forward with heavy hearts knowing that Maritza is right – our job as a rescue is never over. Funds donated to Geronimo’s care will help us pursue our mission to unite cats and dogs with loving people.
