It is not usually a cause for celebration when an animal has been at the Talbot Humane Adoption Center for six months. However, the cat the staff named “Vernon” was not the usual stray feline.

When the large orange and white, medium-haired cat was brought to Talbot Humane, it was found to have several jagged bite marks on its neck. Presumed to have been bitten by a wild animal, the staff had two options—euthanize the cat, or provide care for a six-month quarantine period.

With the Adoption Center already overcrowded with healthy and adoptable cats and kittens, providing appropriate long-term space would be a challenge.  The staff, though, had already discovered that Vernon was a gentle giant and affectionate, despite having what they knew must be painful wounds. They decided Vernon was special and worth the extended commitment of time, effort and resources necessary to getting him adoptable.

On September 3rd, Talbot Humane Executive Director Brian Metcalf gathered the staff together. “You are here today to celebrate one of the many achievements that make Talbot Humane different from most other animal welfare agencies,” he said. “What we are about to celebrate is what makes me so proud to be a part of Talbot Humane, and to have the opportunity to work with each of you.”

Unveiling an ice cream cake decorated with the words, “Congratulations, Vernon!”, Metcalf announced the completion of Vernon’s six-month quarantine. The cat that has become a fond favorite of the Talbot Humane staff is now ready and waiting for adoption into a new forever home.

For more information, to make a contribution, or to volunteer, call Talbot Humane at 410-822-0107 or visit www.talbothumane.org.