Meet the Anim-Mates mascot - Willy

Willy is a rather special cat who was born on 16 June 2002. He is called Willy, short for Willy Wonka, because his legs were deformed and when he walked, he was a bit wonky. 

At first the outlook was not hopeful and so he was to stay with Anim-Mates and have a loving, stimulating young life all the time that he had no pain and enjoyed himself. 

Then a vet said Willy could have a better life if he went through a number of operations to correct his deformity. 

The Kentish Times newspaper took Willy to their hearts and told his story. The public's reaction was overwhelming. Anim-Mates received more money than Willy actually needed for his operations. Willy had his operations and recovered well. 

We spoke to The Kentish Times about the extra funding that had been received and discussed the possibility of using the these funds sent in for Willy, to set up a fund for any other animals that may come in with special needs. 

The funds will always be available to Willy if he needs them, but he is happy to share his good fortune with other animals that, like him, need that extra special care.

Willy lives a very happy and active life with his adopter in Lee.

To see more pictures of Willy click on his bandaged foot in the top picture