Monday, August 6, 2007

A few days ago, a little black and white cat named Domino died at the estimated age of 17 years. He died in the arms of the person he loved most in the world, knowing that his legacy would carry on. Who was this cat and why was he so special?

In 1991, Domino was rescued, living in the wild in Hobe Sound. He was just skin and bones, with bloody bones protruding where his tail had been. After emergency veterinary care followed by months of constant care and encouragement, Domino grew stronger each day.

The pain this little cat suffered and the manner in which he endured it earned him a place in the hearts of all who met him.

This brave little cat inspired Maris and Charles Sine to set up Domino's Cat Rescue League, called Domino's House, in Palm City, for many years the only no-kill, not-for-profit organization/shelter in Martin County that cares for homeless, abandoned and abused cats and kitttens. (There is now an additional shelter.) The major focus is on spay and neuter of homeless cats and finding them good homes.

Domino lived at Domino's House for many years, welcoming each new cat to the shelter on arrival and checking each night to ensure that all cats were bedded down. Over the years, some people visited Domino's House just to see this sweet, courageous, big-hearted cat who finally had a real home and was so generous in sharing it.

"We couldn't have done it without him," said Maris. "But our work will go on until there are no more homeless cats. That is his legacy."

Susan Hansen

Port St. Lucie