AUSTIN, Texas — When Sally Skellington was adopted from Austin Pets Alive! (APA!), she seemed to be thriving in her new home—until she suddenly stopped walking months later.
Her frantic family rushed her to an emergency clinic, but veterinarians couldn’t determine the cause of her paralysis. Faced with no other options, they made the difficult decision to return Sally to APA! in hopes of saving her life.
A Race Against Time
“Sally made it just in time,” said Luis Sanchez, APA!’s director of public relations and communications. “She was diagnosed with feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), a once-fatal disease we’ve pioneered treatments for.”
FIP had robbed Sally of her ability to walk and nearly claimed her life. But through intensive care, the resilient feline began to recover—defying expectations when she took her first wobbly steps.
A Miraculous Recovery
“Walking isn’t groundbreaking for most cats, but for Sally, it’s life-changing,” APA! shared on Facebook, celebrating her progress. Shelter staff cheered as Sally moved shakily but determinedly across the room.
“Thanks to groundbreaking care, Sally is regaining strength and even taking her first steps again,” Sanchez said.
A Bright Future Ahead
Once uncertain of her prognosis, Sally is now preparing for a new forever home, where she’ll continue rebuilding her strength and confidence. Her journey—from paralysis to triumphant steps—serves as a testament to resilience and the lifesaving work of animal rescuers.
“Every small step forward is a victory,” Sanchez added. For Sally, each one is a miracle.
Related topics: