We are honored to present Toby Carney as Companion Animal of the
Month for November 2007. Toby is a 12 year old Domestic Long Haired cat
who is the quiet, yet gentle, companion animal to Kim and James Carney. In 1994,
Kim lost her long time companion Charlotte, who was a Persian cat, and was looking for a
new companion animal. After a long search, she found a family that was
trying to find a home for one of their cats. So in February 1995, Kim picked-up
Toby in Bridgeville, Delaware. He was only about 2 year old
when adopted by the Carney's.
Toby can be best described as a creature of habit. He has a strict daily routine that he does not like to deviate from. Every night he comes inside through his cat door and will walk the Carney's entire family room before settling down on the sofa in Kim's lap. Toby also does not like area rugs or carpet. He will walk along the side of the stairs to avoid the center rug going down the stairs. In 2004, Toby remained outdoors for several days in protest when Mr. Carney went on a business trip to Israel. Toby loves to give affection but he will also head butt the Carney's until they return the favor. Toby is a unique cat in that he loves to be bathed. He will sit in the sink half filled with water quietly until the bath is over.
In May
2007, Toby presented for his annual Wellness Examination. Weight loss, 13%
in one year, and dental disease were noted and wellness lab work was submitted.
These tests lead to a definitive diagnosis of Hyperthyroidism and Toby was
started on the appropriate medication. Unfortunately, Toby's problems
compounded into diarrhea and anorexia and later into dehydration and severe
constipation. At one point he lost 18% more of his weight in just two
months. Toby had to be hospitalized for intravenous fluids and oral
nutritional support. After a few days in the hospital he improved and
further care was continued at home by the Carney family. At last check,
Toby gained 11% of his weight in just five days. Toby never gave up
through his treatment and continues to bounce back through the rough times.
No matter what obstacles have faced Toby, he has always managed to overcome them and return safely into Kim's lap. Atlantic Animal Hospital is committed to helping all companion animals, like Toby, make it through tough times and to make it home safely. Strong companion animals and dedicated humans like Toby and the Carney's inspire the staff at Atlantic Animal Hospital to continue providing good veterinary care in order to support and strengthen the human-animal bond.
Back to Atlantic Animal Hospital