The Troy, Michigan, police department’s search for a feline officer took an unexpected and heartbreaking turn.
Officer Badges, who reported for duty on May 1, has been diagnosed with feline leukemia.
Although this serious disease puts the kitten’s life in jeopardy, it can be treated. Officer Badges will remain at the Humane Society until her condition has stabilized. Cats suffering with feline leukemia can live long lives if they receive the proper treatment and have a quiet home life. However, feline leukemia is also contagious, which means Officer Badges cannot live in a home with other cats.
Pawfficer Donut Accepts the Challenge
With heavy hearts, the department chose a new feline officer. On May 4, Pawfficer Donut raised her right paw and swore to be “brave, honest, strong, inquisitive, diligent, and tolerant of the canine unit.” Pawfficer Donut will make public appearances promoting shelter animal adoption, with proceeds benefitting the Michigan Humane Society, and she will serve as a therapy animal for her human colleagues, providing cuddles to officers who need them.
You can follow Pawfficer Donut on Twitter.