The True Story Of Sir Thomas Trueheart
WARNING: Contains a graphic image.
Last summer, Sir Thomas Trueheart, or Tommy as he is affectionately called, was spotted wandering aimlessly in a southern California neighborhood in the middle of an oppressive heat wave.
When he showed up in the backyard of an animal-lover (Judie Merrill), she noticed that Tommy had horrific injuries and immediately took him to her veterinarian. When the vet saw Tommy, the initial reaction was to euthanize Tommy, who was not only badly burned from some caustic substance but also was diagnosed as FIV+.
Sir Thomas Trueheart after one of many surgeries to save his life
Fortunately, the compassionate woman who saved him, put a halt to that idea and reached out to social media to find help for Sir Thomas. Milo’s Sanctuary heard about Tommy’s plight and answered that call. They rushed to take him in to their top-notch vets for treatment. Tommy’s face and eyelids had critical burns and he had other medical issues as well including an upper respiratory infection.
Tommy’s case required round-the-clock expert care as well as extensive surgery on his face and head and sadly he lost one of his eyes due to his injuries. Thanks to the kindness of strangers and those who believed in him – Tommy is a happy, loving cat that continues to improve each day. He has touched the hearts of literally hundreds of thousands worldwide as his story has gone global and he’s even a contender as “Star Cat” for another cat magazine.
“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” ― Mahatma Gandhi
The Catnip Times first learned about Tommy through Casey Christopher, cat photographer and mom to
Imogen the Kitten. Casey started a GoFundMe page, and to date, has helped raise nearly $12,000 for Tommy and Milo’s Sanctuary.
Sadly Tommy’s story isn’t unique. Countless cats and dogs are abused every year – and many aren’t as lucky as Tommy. If you know of or witness animal abuse, be sure to be their voice and report the abuse. Not sure how? See our
guidelines for reporting animal cruelty.
About Milo’s Sanctuary
Milo’s Sanctuary focuses on caring for cats that need special care – particularly those that have physical disabilities, are elderly, have a terminal illness, or have been abused. They are an all-volunteer operated 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Cats are placed in foster homes where they can get the love and attention they need and deserve. For cats that can’t be re-homed, Milo’s makes a promise to care for them, providing necessary treatment and medications. Every dollar donated goes to these amazing cats.
Do you know of an amazing cat rescue? Tell us about it!