**GRAPHIC CONTENT WARNING**
Buddy the cat calls the Philadelphia streets home, but he has friends who look after him. From reports on Facebook, it’s said the handsome black cat hangs out at one family’s house in particular because they make sure he always gets something good to eat. But as Buddy was minding his own business on the porch of his friends’ East Frankford home, two minors walking dogs came upon him and unleashed cruelty.
Security footage captured the moment when the two minors stopped, let their dogs off their leashes, and encouraged them to attack Buddy. As they watched the vicious attack they ordered, the boys cheered on the dogs, one abuser even yelling “good boy” to his dog. The pair did nothing to stop the vicious attack until the homeowner came out because he heard the commotion.
Guilty Minors Identified and Charged
Now, the 17-year-old and 12-year-old children behind the attack have surrendered to police and await a custodial hearing. The dogs have been taken into custody by the Pennsylvania Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals for the duration of the investigation.
“The current charges filed include felony animal fighting, felony aggravated animal cruelty and a conspiracy charge,” said the PSPCA. “These crimes do not fall under the list of offenses which permit juveniles to be charged as adults which is designated by statute.”
As for Buddy, the PSPCA has taken the brutalized cat into their care, and he’s “hanging in there.”
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One Tough Buddy Cat
After the attack, the PSPCA and BluePearl Specialty and Emergency Pet Hospital came together and delivered the life-saving treatment Buddy needed.
While his condition is still critical, the PSPCA said on Facebook, “His prognosis is hopeful.”
The PSPCA also reported that Buddy appeared to be clear of internal bleeding and broken bones, but the poor kitty has “wounds across his body,” according to spokesperson Gillian Kocher.
As more time passes since the attack, Buddy continues to fight and has even started making biscuits. It’s hoped he’ll fully recover, leaving behind this moment of cruelty to find brighter days. And the PSPCA will be there every step of the way.
Already, Buddy has captured staff and volunteer hearts, with Gillian telling Huff Post, “Buddy seems to be a gem for all we can tell so far.”
“He loves chin scratches, has been giving head nudges and loves a warm rag on his whiskers. Only time will tell what else his personality holds, but we think he has a bright future if all goes well.”
Once he’s healed from this heinous act, Buddy will be on the hunt for his forever home. Gillian explained that the family caring for Buddy “did wonderfully by him,” ensuring he was neutered and well-fed even though he wasn’t a kitty who craved the inside life. After this, Buddy may have different ideas. But only time will tell. For now, it’s all about healing and finding the justice he deserves after becoming a victim of cruelty.
”This act of cruelty is especially heinous for its apparent intentional nature,” Julie Klim, PSPCA’s CEO, told Philly Voice. “An innocent animal simply sitting on a porch may lose its life for absolutely no reason. Animals are beloved members of our family, and should be treated as such.”
Worldwide Support
Support for Buddy has poured into the PSCPA, with Gillian reporting, “The outpouring has been nothing short of amazing. We have seen donations from Scotland, India, Australia, and so many places across the country. The love is immense for this sweet boy.”
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“While we certainly see a lot of bad as we fight to end animal cruelty, we also see how much good there is, especially in a case like this, from all corners of the globe,” Klim told Today. “We will do everything humanly and medically possible to ensure Buddy’s future will be a bright one.”
To follow Buddy’s return to health or donate to his care, visit the Pennsylvania Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals on Facebook.
GRAPHIC CONTENT WARNING: This video contains footage of the attack on Buddy.
H/T: www.huffpost.com
Feature Image: Pennsylvania Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals/Facebook