Russel was injured in a house fire and sustained 3rd-degree burns, which required amputations. Due to the extent of his injuries and the necessity for continual care, he is still in the hospital. But the gentle cat doesn’t let his problems get the best of him, and he shares his affection with the other patients.
Russel assists the staff at North Carolina’s Animal Emergency Hospital & Urgent Care by visiting and comforting other animals in their rooms. Despite the challenges he has with movement, he is unflappable. Unless the hospital staff gently encourages him, he will not take a break.
Russel began assisting other patients after becoming a permanent resident at the veterinary clinic.
“He wants to meet all of our patients,” says the veterinarian. “All he wants to do is be with them,” medical personnel told reporters. “I’m not sure if he can detect suffering in other animals… However, he appears to have a strange talent for bonding with patients.”
Russel has a long road ahead of him, and he may never fully heal after undergoing foot surgery recently. Fortunately, the donations have enabled him to live at the hospital full-time, ensuring that he receives the finest possible care.
He has a sixth sense for when other animals require support and comfort.
Most cats are distant and independent, but he enjoys being with other animals.
It’s not always about him, though. He enjoys sharing his company with others.
He’s a rock star in this place. Everybody is excited to see him. We’d be happy to have him as our clinic’s mascot.
It’d be wonderful to have someone like him as a comforter.
Isn’t he just adorable?
