I died today. You got tired of me and took me to the Polk County Animal Shelter. They were overcrowded and didn’t have space for me. They killed me and sold my body for $10. Some other kitty will get the barely used bed you left. I was scared and confused, but the lady petted me softly before she sent me to the Rainbow Bridge.
Would I still be home if I hadn’t clawed on your couch? It was leather, and I didn’t know I wasn’t supposed to scratch on it. I was stretching and exercising my muscles. You forgot to get scratching posts.
Would I still be at home if I hadn’t scratched your hand? I was only playing, and you forgot to buy me toys.
Would I still be at home if I hadn’t brought fleas into the house? Without anti-flea medicine, I couldn’t get them off of me after you left me in the yard for days.
Would I still be at home if I hadn’t meowed? I only said, “I’m scared, I’m lonely, I’m here, I’m here! I want to be your best friend.” I was all alone.
Would I still be at home if I had made you happy? Hitting me didn’t make me learn how.
Would I still be at home if you had taken the time to care for me and to teach me not to get on the table and counters? You didn’t pay attention to me after the first week or so, but I spent all my time waiting for you to love me.
I died today.
Love, Your Kitty
Heartbreaking.
Most uncaring one is SHERIFF GRADY JUDD.
So sad!!! So many uncaring horrible people in this world who abuse the helpless animals and children, who only want to be loved and show you love.
It breaks my heart to think that pets — and even community cats — euthanized by Polk County Animal Control might be taken away from their families or caregivers without giving them enough time to say goodbye or reclaim these valuable lives. Is it really ethical — or even legal — to sell an animal’s body, denying grieving families and dedicated caretakers any chance to find closure?
With all the technology available today, like virtual reality, there’s no reason to use euthanized animals to train veterinary students. Every life matters. We owe it to our pets, our community cats, and their human families to demand better — better communication, respect, and ethical practices.
It’s time to review these policies and bring transparency so no more families or caregivers suffer in silence. Our animals deserve dignity, and the people who love and care for them deserve justice.
They are family — not possessions, not passing fads. 💕 If you’re not ready to understand their needs, their feelings, and their behavior, please wait. Their hearts trust us completely, and their lives are a lifelong commitment. 🐾