Kate's Story

Thursday, March 01, 2007

Patricia Smillie-Scavelli
Administrator
Garden State Veterinary Specialists

Kate’s story is similar to those of many animals who suffer abuse, she was found cold and near death in an apartment house hallway. The sweet natured dog had suffered traumatically at the hands of her abuser. Rescued by the Associated Humane Society officers, Kate was brought to their facility but staff members quickly realized that in her dire state, Kate was in need of immediate emergency medical care. The Humane Society brought her to Garden State Veterinary Specialists for evaluation and treatment. Dr. Kate Palmer, a board certified internist and critical care specialist headed the team who attended to Kate, Dr. Palmer’s namesake.

For several days, Kate remained in the Intensive Care Unit under the constant watch of GSVS’s staff. Special care and attention was given to Kate by Galina, the ICU technician assigned to her care. A special bond developed between Kate and her caregiver. Galina bought pillows and blankets for Kate and carefully attended to her wounded body and soul. As the days went by it was clear that Kate was finally on the road to recovery and could leave ICU. What would happen to Kate thereafter would be the decision of the Associated Humane Society of Newark.

Galina was afraid that Kate would leave and she would never see her ‘Princess” again. Thousands of people had heard of Kate’s plight and wanted to offer her a good home. Galina did not give up hope though and filed an application along with many others to bring Kate home. GSVS employees who had seen Kate’s recovery and witnessed first hand the strong bond between Kate and Galina, signed a petition urging the Humane Society to approve her application. It only seemed appropriate that Kate be given a loving home with someone she trusted after all she had been through.

The Humane Society agreed and with cameras rolling and tears flowing, Kate returned to GSVS, this time not for treatment, but to be reunited with Galina. While the staff of GSVS cheered, the representatives of the Humane Society reunited the two. Kate could not be happier and Galina cried, “this is the happiest day of my life!”

Through the untiring efforts of the Humane Society and its dedicated officers Kate was saved and will be able to live a happy, healthy life in a safe home. GSVS was happy to play its role in Kate’s recovery. Over the years, GSVS has had the opportunity to provide medical care to many of the animals rescued by the Humane Society but none has become so dear to our hearts as “Princess Kate”.

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for the professional advice of your veterinarian.

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