Dusty came into our lives 15 years ago. He was part of a 4 week old litter found abandoned in a garage. After they were hand-weaned, we chose 2 of the kittens: Dusty and his sister Butterscotch. At first, Dusty was so scared of people it took a while to catch him and get him home. With much patience and yummy food bribes, we finally proved ourselves worthy of his trust. After that, he charmed pretty much everyone he met. He had a way of making you feel like the most important person on the world.
Dusty also had an independent streak and loved being a part-time barn cat, at least until he got grounded for not coming back one night! He loved to hunt in the yard and climb the hay bales in the barn, then come in to get fed and pampered. Later, he became an apartment cat and settled into a quiet life. Last year, Dusty and Butterscotch moved with me from Wisconsin to Colorado. They adjusted right away and helped me eventually do the same.
The last few years, Dusty was diabetic. He never once complained about the shots or the blood draws. Then this January, he was diagnosed with mouth cancer. It spread quickly and he quit eating late in March. When he passed, he was at home in his favorite spot: on the couch, on my lap, being held and petted. Thank you so much, Dr. Kristin, for making this necessary step peaceful and healing. Dusty thanks you too!
Dusty was loved by a lot of people. He brought light and laughter to everyone who knew him. You will be missed, Dusty Boy!
Shirley Mand