We first met Phyllip in February 2021. He came through our TNR program as a community cat called Senor Feo. We neutered him, vaccinated him, microchipped him, and removed a few loose teeth. Afterward, he returned home to his caretaker’s workshop in Richmond’s Iron Triangle.

In June 2023, his caretaker reached out again, concerned about an injury on one of his front feet. Upon examination, we determined he likely had a cancerous mass on his left front paw. Despite his condition, Senor Feo showed his trust, purring and gently head-butting us. To give him his best chance, we recommended a limb amputation. His caretaker was unsure how he would adapt as a three-legged cat in her workshop, so Robin Post, RVT, offered to take him in for recovery.

The surgery was successful, and Senor Feo became Phyllip, joining Robin’s household. Phyllip spent six joyful months as a beloved companion. He dined on chicken and steak, lounged on the bed, and napped in the sun. Every day, he awaited Robin’s return, ready to snuggle on the couch with his human and dog friends. He was content and happy.

In September 2023, however, Phyllip’s cancer returned, affecting his other front leg. Soon after, Robin made the difficult decision to say goodbye.

The Phyllip Fund was established through the generosity of animal lover Madeleine Larsson. This fund ensures that community cats in need of critical, lifesaving surgeries can access affordable veterinary care at our clinic. Additionally, it supports our public TNR (Trap, Neuter, Return) program, which provides spay/neuter surgery, vaccines, microchips, ear-tipping, and parasite control for $45. 

Please join us in growing this fund to provide essential care to community cats. By contributing to The Phyllip Fund, you will help more cats like Phyllip receive the care they need to live their best lives. 

Every dollar you give honors the legacy of an “ugly” cat who touched our lives. Help us continue to provide lifesaving care to all the other Phyllips out there in our community.