Abused Cat Dexter Passes Away

For many weeks I have been closely following the story about Dexter, the adorable black and white cat that was so brutally abused by a mother and her children. I was overjoyed when Dexter's recovery had progressed to the point that he was able to be adopted into his forever loving home. And like many people who adored the little ball of fluff who had such a passion for life, I believed Dexter would fully recover.

Although I am not deeply religious, I truly believe there is a higher power that works in mysterious ways. I believe that we are often touched by loving angels that come to us in many different forms, and that, while they are always present to guide us, we may not yet understand their presence in our journey through life.

Many of these angels come to us in the form of animals, many of which we may never have personally met but they always come to us for a reason, to inspire us, to give us courage, and reflect back to us our inner strength and beauty, many times of which we are not fully aware.

One of these angels was little Dexter, the black and white cat who had been so brutally abused, with whom thousands of people around the country fell in love. His courage and his incredible will to live gave strength and inspiration to so many folks. His light, like a brilliant beacon, illuminated the pathways of all of those who struggle.  

Late yesterday afternoon, I was deeply saddened to learn that Dexter lost his battle to live. He suffered a setback with his seizures starting again, getting more and more frequent and stronger. So a very difficult decision was made to release him from his pain and suffering and he was lovingly put to sleep by those who truly adored him. My heart goes out to them at this time of loss.

To comfort those who also are saddened, I offer this poem, written by a dear friend, in dedication to all that loved and prayed for this cat's remarkable recovery, and will miss him. He was truly an angel sent to us.

I will lend to you for awhile a kitten, God said. For you to love while he lives, and mourn when he's dead. Maybe for twelve or fourteen years, or maybe two or three. But will you, 'till I call him back, take care of him for me?

He'll bring his charms to gladden you and, should his stay be brief you’ll always have his memories as solace for your grief. I cannot promise he will stay, since all from earth return. But there are lessons taught below I want this kitten to learn.

I've looked the whole world over in search of teachers true. And from the folk that crowds life's land I have chosen you. Now will you give him all your love, nor think the labor vain? Nor hate me when I come to take my kitten home again?

I fancied that I heard them say 'Dear Lord Thy Will Be Done' For all the joys this kitten brings the risk of grief we'll run. We'll shelter him with tenderness; we'll love him while we may. And for the happiness we've known, forever grateful stay.

But should you call him back much sooner than we planned, We'll brave the bitter grief that comes, and try to understand. If, by our love we've managed your wishes to achieve, Then in memory of him whom we loved, please help us while we grieve.

When our cherished kitten departs this world of strife, Please send yet another needing soul for us to love all his life.

--J. A Morrison

Appropriately, I'd like to share a loving moment captured on video of Dexter on PetLuv Spay&Neuter Facebook page in this time of mourning.