A CAT had to have a leg amputated after being shot with an air rifle near its owner's home.
Joey Clark's cat, Harvey, left her house Monday, October 19.
Less than an hour later, the animal was back and obviously in pain.
"My other half was in the bathroom and heard a crash. The cat had jumped up on the work top and lost his balance because his leg was hurt so badly," said Joey, of Roman Way, Southwick.
UpsetJoey expected to be told Harvey had been hit by a car, but was horrified when she found out he had been shot with an air rifle, shattering the animal's left back leg.
"That was very upsetting for me. I couldn't comprehend someone wanting to do that to an animal," said Joey.
Along with her partner, Trevor, she was given a choice of an attempt to reconstruct Harvey's leg at a cost of £3,000, or amputation.
"We simply couldn't afford that and they couldn't guarantee the reconstruction would be successful," said Joey.
"I couldn't bear the thought of him suffering, but the vet said he would have a good quality of life after the amputation."
DisgustedHarvey's leg was amputated the following day and he returned home on Thursday, October 22.
He is now making a good recovery.
After Harvey was shot, Joey distributed leaflets to houses in Southwick, warning other pet owners about the attack.
"I am none the wiser about who could have done this or why," said the 51-year-old.
"Neighbours and friends were so kind, concerned and disgusted, and it reassured me that, for one cruel person, there are so many kind people."
-------------------------------------
Click here to go back to Shoreham news.Where are you? Add your pin to the Herald's international readers' map by clicking here.Email the Herald: letters@shorehamherald.co.ukWant to read this page in French, German, Spanish, Polish, Portuguese, Urdu or 48 other languages? click here for Google translate.