CLEARWATER - The Humane Society of Pinellas says a cat that was shot with an arrow on Tuesday, June 16, in the vicinity of Whitney Road in Clearwater is going to be OK.
“Robin Hood is in the healing process as he continues under Dr. Beck’s, (HSP veterinarian), care. He is able to begin weight bearing on his paw, but is still skittish to human touch – this may be attributed to trauma suffered as a victim of this crime or to his fending for himself without an owner or residence for a long period of time as a process in cats becoming feral and reverting back to a wild state,” said Barbara Snow, Humane Society of Pinellas executive director.
The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office is handling the case as a criminal felony.
HSP is not aware of whether the cat is owned or is an abandoned cat, the press release said.
Humane Society of Pinellas’ veterinarian went to the scene to rescue the cat and brought the cat to the HSP Clinic where the arrow was removed and the cat received follow-up treatment,” according to a press release from the Humane Society.
HSP employees named the cat Robin Hood. He is a neutered male, orange tabby with no tags or microchip. The Humane Society of Pinellas is offering a $500.00 reward for information leading to the arrest and criminal charges against the perpetrator. Statistics show violence against animals leads to violence against humans; and HSP supports full accountability of this crime within Florida law.
“We will follow through the court process when the offender is caught”, said Snow.
Citizens may also contact Crime stoppers at 1-800-873-TIPS (8477) or sfraley@pcsonet.com to anonymously report information and receive a reward according to their criteria.
“Cats should not have to live like this (on their own) – they are companion animals,” Snow said. “HSP will do all we can to help Robin Hood heal physically and emotionally to return to an owner, if he has one, or to readopt him to a new and forever home – he deserves this second chance for a better and longer life.”
Cats without a residence, responsible owners or food often become feral and have reverted to a wild state. They are forced to hunt for food by preying on wildlife above the natural order of predator-prey status.
“Their life span is significantly lower when feral, and cats deserve better” said Twila Cole, HSP event coordinator, “We hope Robin Hood will have a speedy recovery and inspire others to keep cats at home safe from those that want to harm them.” Anyone wishing to help with the cost of Robin Hood’s treatment may donate to the Humane Society of Pinellas or, in Robin Hood’s honor, adopt another of the many cats waiting for their ‘Forever Home’ at the HSP shelter on 3040 SR 590 Clearwater.
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