In case you were not familiar with all of the amazing work that the Washington Humane Society (WHS) does for the animals of The District, the following story about a cat named Nola is just one example of why we need them in our community.

Nola was brought in to Friendship for emergency care after a Humane Law Enforcement Officer responded to a call in Northeast DC.  A woman had found her curled up on her front porch with severe wounds and smelling of burnt hair.  Her whiskers were completely singed off, the tips of her ears were deformed from severe burns and the right side of her body was hairless and covered in an open wound.  It was presumed that someone had intentionally set her on fire.  What is truly amazing is that despite this horrific act of cruelty she was purring nonstop, wanting only to curl up in someone's arms.

Nola responded very well to treatment and is now safely living with a wonderful foster family while she continues to heal.  I am constantly amazed by the ability animals have for unconditional love and forgiveness.  It is because of this unending capacity for love that I became a veterinarian and why I believe so strongly in WHS's mission. The animals they protect do not have a voice, therefore it is our moral responsibility to stand up and speak for them.

Watch Nola's story on 9 News Now: