Meet Steve: Proof That Second Chances Change Everything
When Steve arrived at Erie Humane Society on August 28, 2025, he was hurting, hungry, and alone. He came in as an injured stray who could barely put weight on his front left paw and despite everything he’d clearly been through, he was immediately social, friendly, and eager for attention.
That gentle personality has never changed. What has changed is Steve’s health and his future.
A Long Road to Healing
Upon intake in August 2025, Steve was thin and not bearing any weight on his front left paw.
Early exams revealed that Steve had an abscess in his front left paw. Further testing showed the infection had spread into the bone, turning what looked like a simple injury into a months-long healing journey. Steve underwent extended antibiotic treatment and frequent veterinary rechecks, handling it all with patience and trust.
Thanks to consistent care and teamwork between shelter staff and our veterinary partners, the infection fully resolved. Today, Steve has full use of his leg and paw and you’d never know how much he overcame to get there.
The difference in Steve's paws due to the infection in his left paw.
During this time, it was also discovered that Steve was cryptorchid, meaning one testicle hadn’t descended. This required a more invasive neuter surgery. While he was safely under anesthesia, he also received a dental cleaning and treatment for a broken canine tooth, likely another source of discomfort he’d been quietly living with.
And then there was his eye.
Fixing the “Squinty Eye”
Steve was diagnosed with entropion, a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing the fur to rub against the surface of the eye. It’s uncomfortable and painful but very treatable. Steve has undergone multiple corrective procedures to ensure his eyelid sits properly and stays that way.
Later, when a lump on his ear began to grow, Steve once again took it all in stride. The affected portion of his ear was partially removed, resolving the issue and leaving him feeling much more comfortable (and giving him a bit of extra character, too).
Throughout all of this; every exam, medication, surgery, and recovery—Steve remained unbelievably sweet. It’s no secret that he has quietly become a staff favorite (even though we definitely don’t pick favorites). His calm, loving demeanor has made him a joy to care for and an easy cat to root for.
More Than His Medical Chart
Steve is so much more than his past medical needs. He is:
- Sweet, mellow, and affectionate
- A top-tier snuggler who loves being held like a baby
- Chatty, food-motivated, and people-obsessed
- Doesn't mind other cats
- Not a fan of dogs
- A wonderful candidate for an emotional support animal
- Likely to enjoy harness walks or backpack adventures
Steve's healing process is nearly complete and he is enjoying his first day out of the cone in months!
Why Steve’s Story Matters
Steve’s journey is a perfect example of how shelter medicine works at its best. By combining in-shelter care, veterinary partnerships, and our wellness clinic, we were able to provide Steve with everything he needed not just to survive, but to thrive.
Adopting a homeless pet is a truly rewarding experience, it not only transforms the life of an animal in need, but also fills your own life with unconditional love, joy, and gratitude. Knowing you’ve given a deserving pet a second chance and a forever home is one of the most heartwarming feelings there is.
Steve is living proof of that.
Ready for His Next Chapter
Once his final recovery is complete, Steve will be available for adoption and whoever gets to call him family will be incredibly lucky.
If you’re looking for a calm, loving companion with a huge heart and an even bigger appreciation for cozy laps, Steve is waiting to meet you.
