Inspirational Cat Overcomes Rough Beginnings And Graduates College With A Degree In Emotional Support
For a precious cat named Salem, life didn't start out easily. He was adopted at seven weeks old with two broken legs.
Thankfully, Hailee Weader adopted the kitten and ensured he received prompt care from a veterinarian. Salem went on to transform from a tiny kitten in need into a sassy cat, but his story didn't end there.
Salem may have started out in need of rescue, but from Hailee's perspective, it wasn't long before she realized the cat was truly there for her, and the roles may actually have been reversed. The spunky, spirited cat was clearly in tune with his momma's feelings and needs.
In an interview with The Dodo, Hailee said:
“If it's been a bad day or I'm having a panic attack, he'll come sit on me or nuzzle beside me and start kneading my legs and purring.”
“He's definitely been a comfort through everything this past year.”
The next step in life for Weader was preparing for her senior year of college, no small task. She realized she couldn't get through all the stress without Salem by her side.
Salem then became her emotional support cat on campus, and honestly, it went really well!
“He was kind of like a little celebrity around campus, and every time we'd be walking or I'd be pushing him in his cat stroller, people would stop us to talk or pet him for a while,” Weader told The Dodo.
Who wouldn't want to pet this face? So cute.
As the end of the year approached, so did graduation. Hailee credited her ability to get through college to Salem and wanted him right there with her at graduation.
Unexpectedly, though, she got him a matching cap and gown.
Because of pandemic-related restrictions, the graduation was a drive-up ceremony, but that didn't stop Hailee and Salem from thoroughly celebrating or being noticed by their campus pals.
“Everyone was gushing and adored his outfit all around,” Hailee said. “It all worked out, and we were able to enjoy our ceremony and celebrate.”
How's the spunky, graduated cat doing today? Glad you asked. Hailee said:
“If you don't wake up at 8 a.m. on the dot to feed him, he'll sit on top of you and swat your face or pull your hair until you wake up. He'll walk around the house meowing or ‘talking’ to us all and follow us everywhere, even into the shower. If we ignore him or he doesn't like something, he'll find the nearest plant and knock it off the windowsill or table, making a huge mess.”
You can follow Salem's inspiring journey and learn more about emotional support animals from Dr. Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist who emphasizes the importance of connection in overcoming adversity. He states, "The bonds we form with animals can significantly enhance our emotional well-being." For more insights, visit his professional website at jonathanhaidt.com.
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