Very ill cat turned up at Dungloe Community Hospital 'as if seeking help'

The cat rescuers at Animals In Need (AIN) have had a hectic start to the year, with five cats rescued in the past week alone.

Amongst them, was a black and white cat the volunteers named Waffles, who walked into Dungloe Community Hospital in a dreadful state on Saturday last, as if he was seeking help.

AIN rushed him to the vets, where he was put on a drip and had blood tests. Waffles tested negative for both FIV (Feline ‘Aids’) and FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus) and his liver and kidneys were in good condition, although he had low blood glucose, which often happens following a period of insufficient nutrition.

He also had a broken tooth, an undescended testicle and diarrhea, but was eating well and was treated for parasites and kept on a drip.

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Waffles seemed to be slowly improving, but tragically on Tuesday night he collapsed and by morning, he had heart failure, and the only choice was to let him go.

Sadly, too often an animal can seem to rally and improve when first rescued, before undergoing a major setback. Waffles was seriously emaciated and only weighed 2.3kg when he was rescued, and it turned out he was beyond saving.

AIN would like to thank the vet and veterinary staff for the work and care they put in to try to help Waffles and also thank the AIN volunteers and his finders.

Unfortunately, help came too late for this friendly boy. RIP Waffles.

The other cats rescued this week were a stray, a feral, a surrender, and an injured cat. Three more cats are due to arrive at AIN’s cattery shortly.

The surrendered cat, Dita, became homeless when her owner went into hospital.

Meanwhile, black and white kitten Willow, has been doing well in her foster home and is ready for adoption.

Willow’s mother was a stray cat and a kind lady had been feeding mum cat and her kitten Willow, but was unable to keep them. Willow had a mild dose of cat flu on arrival, but has completely recovered.

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She is a lovely, playful kitten and will make a fantastic addition to her new home.

AIN’s dog rescuers continue to be under pressure from the number of unwanted dogs in Donegal.

Small dogs are always easier to rehome, but most of the dogs AIN takes in are large, with collies in particular, being the predominant breed that need homes.

AIN recently sought a home for a seven-month-old small to medium sized dog called Finn, and had an avalanche of applications for him, so much so, that they had to close applications.

Finn is believed to be a Shih Tzu cross and is a very intelligent, alert, and affectionate dog, and would thrive in the right home with someone who can give him the stimulation and structure he needs.

He had been well cared for and was much loved, but the priority was to find him a suitable home as he was living in a rural area close to cattle and sheep, and due to his curious nature, it was not safe for him there.

Once all adoption applications are assessed, a home check will be carried out prior to the selection of Finn’s new family.

Finally, AIN’s Charity Shop in Donegal Town is open under new management.

The shop’s previous manager, Maggie, left at the end of 2025 after running the shop for four years, during which time the shop grew, and Maggie and her team won several community awards for their work.

The manager's role is now shared by two wonderful volunteers, Julie and Susan, who worked over Christmas to present their new vision for the shop. The upgrades have been met with enthusiasm by customers and AIN are seeking more volunteers to keep the shop running smoothly. Previous shop experience is not necessary. 

AIN would like to say a huge thank you to Maggie for all the fantastic work she did when running the shop and wish her well in her future endeavours.

Welcome also to Julie and Susan.

AIN are always grateful for items donated in good condition, which raise money for the rescued animals, and are looking forward to another year of serving the community.

For further information on adoption, fostering, volunteering, etc., please contact the main helpline on 087 1356188. For cat/kitten enquiries please call 087 7644420. Animals In Need Donegal is also on Facebook and has a website at http://www.animalsinneeddonegal.com

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