August Fund-A-Needs: Tink and Livi

As the leading, true No Kill shelter in Denver, we are often the caregivers of animals that otherwise would’ve face a worser fate.   

This month, we’re fundraising for two special animals, one cat and one dog: Tink and Livi. Our mission is a promise to the animals we shelter and care for: to give them the best possible life we can provide, regardless of the level of care they require. Our intention with fundraising for both Tiki and Livi this month, is to do just that.  

Both of these animals have needs that we feel grateful to be able to address due to the impassioned commitment of our supporters. Donations to either fundraiser will offset the cost to us as a nonprofit organization to continue to provide them with a safe place to await their true companions and recuperate following necessary treatment. Read the blog below to learn more about Tink and Livi, their resilience, their needs, and the impact they’ve had on our community of volunteers and staff. 

Tink: A Magical Addition to MaxFund and a Staff/Volunteer Favorite 

Those who have been to the Cat Shelter know that inside of these four walls, there’s a little bit of magic. Not the magic of a kitten’s mew or the making of a biscuit, but that of Tink’s sweet hums and loving eyes. This month, we’re raising funds for Tink’s daily care needs.  

Tink’s Intake: 

When Tink was relinquished to MaxFund at no fault of her own in January of this year, it was very clear to our team that something was different about her. We initially thought Tink had something we affectionately call “Wobbly Cat” syndrome, also known as cerebellar hypoplasia or CH for short. This condition causes the cerebellum, the part of the brain that controls movement and coordination, to remain underdeveloped. Cats who are diagnosed with CH often have difficulty with walking, eating, and other mobility skills.   

Tink’s Current Condition 

However, our team has since ruled out CH, because of Tink’s unique independence. See, Tink has made incredible progress in her weekly PT sessions. Unlike many other cats with CH, Tink is to be able to hold her head up while eating and can eat, drink, and use her litterbox on her own. She still struggles with mobility, so these tasks do remain difficult for her, but has been showing improvement with the support she has received so far. Our expert kennel and veterinary staff suspect because of the way her mobility continues to improve, her likely diagnosis is more aligned with neurological abnormalities and possible congenital issues.   

All about Tink: 

Despite her condition, Tink leads a very full life. She is the most sweet and loving cat to grace this building, and (shhhh) a staff and volunteer favorite. She most enjoys her time in her sling or stroller, getting to meet all of the amazing people on MaxFund’s campus. She’s also a very social kitty, wooing anyone who passes by with her sweet voice. She loves making friends! Here’s what one volunteer had to say about her: 

Volunteer Nicole writes, “ Tink doesn’t let her disability slow her down. She adores cuddle time, loves curling up on laps, and melts hearts with her soft, sweet little voice as she “talks” to you. Playtime and Churu treats are among her absolute favorites, and she never misses a chance to show her gratitude for love and attention. 

Tink is living proof that with patience, care, and determination, anything is possible—and she’s ready to share her joy, resilience, and cuddles with everyone who meets her.” 

To donate to Tink’s ongoing care needs, visit this link. 
 

Livi: A Valiant Lady who Needs Arthroscopic Surgery 

Since her arrival to us as a puppy in December of last year, Livi has shown us that she is friendly and playful, never missing her chance for a round of fetch. This gorgeous girl loves to explore, whether that’s a park, a body of water, or a backyard, she is curious about everything. As equally as she fancies a jaunt outside in the wilderness, Livi enjoys curling up next to you on the couch to watch your favorite movie.  

Livi’s Surgical Needs 

On top of her zest for life, however, we discovered that Livi has medical issues that inhibit her from living her full happy-go-lucky lifestyle. Livi was diagnosed with hydronephrosis, which means she suffers from blockages in her urinary tract that cause swelling of the kidney. Livi is scheduled to receive surgery for urinary incontinence issues, of which is the best care we can provide her with: arthroscopic surgery.  

This type of surgery involved a minimally invasive approach where a small tube-like scope, or arthroscope, is inserted to address the problem area. The scope contains a small camera and light source which will allow our team to assess the extent of her condition and treat it without causing too much distress or requiring a significant amount of recovery for our active girl. This procedure should allow Livi to lead a normal life post recovery!   

Money donated on Livi’s behalf will go directly to her surgery needs, offsetting the cost to our nonprofit organization to be able to provide her with the care she needs to resume her normal active life and assume the best shape while she awaits her true companions. 

To donate towards Livi’s surgery costs and recovery needs, visit this link. 

A Moment of Gratitude for our Supporters 

Looking back on our last few Fund-A-Need campaigns to support the needs of our MaxFund animals, we can’t help but feel so grateful for the unwavering support of our committed donors, volunteers, and friends, Denver and beyond. If it weren’t for individuals like you, our ability to provide these animals with the shelter, care, and love they need to thrive would wither. So, thank you for everything you do to enrich the lives of those who need it most! MaxFund would be nothing without you.