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Hazel Reese, of Middleburg Heights, rescued two cats, Burnie, the orange feline, and Ruby, the tortoiseshell cat.
MIDDLEBURG HEIGHTS, Ohio -- Hi, my name is Burnie . I was given this name by a lady who came to visit me while I was at the animal hospital. See, at 12 weeks old, I was severely burned on my ears, face, stomach, paws and tail. She would come to hold me and love on me while I was getting better.
After many treatments and some temporary homes, my forever home was with the lady who named me and visited me. Yay!
I had three brothers and a sister at my new home. My siblings were older, and me barely a year old, was full of mischief and energy. My siblings didn't appreciate this much.
My Mom, being keen and noticing my plight, went on a mission to find me a playmate. After much searching, Mom brought home Ruby a 1-year-old female - just my size and age. Wow! Thanks, Mom!
Ruby had a rough start in her young life, like I did. Mom knew she was special and I agreed. We became best buds -- playing, washing each other, sleeping together and standing on hind legs duking it out.
We always have toy mice, catnip, treats and toys. Ruby loved to play with the toy mice until the fake fur would come off. She would carry the toy in her mouth, and it seemed like she was carrying her kittens around.
Later, Ruby developed a number of health problems, including a serious eye problem and hyperthyroidism. At 14, she developed a tumor, pancreatitis and diabetes, which was uncontrollable. Mom and I stuck by Ruby through it all.
She fought so long and hard, and now she's at the Rainbow Bridge with many siblings. I miss my buddy!
Hazel Reese
Middleburg Heights
Do you share your life with an animal that is near and dear to you? Tell us something about your pet - all species are welcome - and send along a photo of the two of you. Be sure to tell us which community you live in. Send everything to Linda Kinsey at [email protected].