Early Morning at the Polls
When Paula Cuesta made her way to her local high school at 6:45 a.m., the hallways were still cloaked in silence. As a dedicated volunteer for the election day in Colombia, she was one of the first to arrive. Yet, as she moved through the empty corridors toward her designated room, she became aware of an unexpected observer.
Cuesta quickly identified the figure as a tabby cat. However, what startled her was the animal’s concerning state. Upon closer inspection, she noticed the cat had a large wound on the side of its head and was missing an ear, with one eye injured as well.
An Instant Connection
This distressing sight affected Cuesta profoundly. The cat maintained eye contact with her but hesitated to approach. To win over his trust, Cuesta crouched down, trying to appear less intimidating.
“That’s when he started trusting me,” Cuesta recalled. The cat gradually approached her, drawn by her gentle demeanor.
Their budding friendship was momentarily interrupted when Cuesta needed to proceed to her classroom duties. But it was clear the cat had developed an attachment.
The Cat’s Loyal Company
Returning to her classroom, Cuesta was followed by the cat, who seemed reluctant to part ways. However, as other volunteers began to appear, it was evident that this cat only had eyes for Cuesta, rubbing against her legs and seeking her affection alone.
As the polling station got busier with voters, the cat, spooked by the activity, vanished into the school grounds. Cuesta made several attempts to track him down, but he remained elusive.
A Final Reunion and Rescue
Crestfallen, Cuesta returned to her duties. As she finished her shift and prepared to leave, a familiar silhouette reappeared. The cat had come back, ensuring that Cuesta wouldn’t miss this pivotal opportunity to help him.
“The moment he saw me, I said, ‘Hi, my sweet boy!’ He came right over and started rubbing against my legs again,” Cuesta recounted. Even a police officer on duty noted the unusually strong bond between the cat and Cuesta.
Realizing the desperate situation the cat, now named Pocillo, was in, Cuesta made the decision to take him home. Wrapped in her jacket, she carried Pocillo to a safe and loving environment.
Pocillo’s Healing Journey
Back home, Cuesta began nurturing the badly injured tabby, starting with a visit to the vet. Despite the fleas and wounds, Pocillo’s health prognosis was optimistic. Due to Cuesta’s persistent care and kindness, Pocillo began to thrive.
Now, settled into his new home, Pocillo’s condition has significantly improved. His wounds are healing, his fur is growing back, and he has become a beloved member of Cuesta’s life.
“He’s the sweetest little cat,” Cuesta shared with affection. Pocillo’s journey from a solitary existence to a cherished companion is a testament to the power of compassion and the deep connections humans can form with animals.
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