First of all, I would like to explain that I am submitting this review under my employer's account, Michael Nordstrom because I do not have a g-mail account. My name is Cindy Rosso, and I would like to describe my experiences with VNA Shaker Road Animal Hospital. About 13-15 years ago (can't remember exact date) we discovered a litter of kittens living in the woods behind our office. It was during the winter. They would come to the edge of the parking lot each night. I started to leave bowls of diluted warm milk and food every night, which would be gone the next morning. I then built them a shelter out of a large cardboard box, lined with insulation, and covered in heavy plastic and a fleece blanket on the floor. It had an "awning" under which they were able to gain access that would close (they still had air) once they were inside to provide protection from the elements. I called the animal rescue, and was able to catch "Charlie". The other kittens were also rescued by other people. Charlie was neutered and returned to me. I was under the impression that I was going to "foster" Charlie, but was advised if I did not keep him, he would be released. I could not bear the thought of him out in the cold again, so I kept him. I didn't name him for 5 years because as I told everyone, "I'm not keeping him". He went by "Sweetheart", Honeybun, Tootsie, and any endearing name that popped out of my mouth at the time. It became a joke at the office, and maybe even gave Charlie a bit of an identity crisis. I eventually named him Charlie. He was a lovable, affectionate companion, and I truly loved him from the start. He brought me pleasure every day. About a year and a half ago, he developed a serious UTI, for which he had surgery, was placed on medication and a prescription diet. Thankfully, he recovered. The doctors and staff of VNA Shaker Road Animal Hospital were fantastic. Every time we went to the office, I could sense everyone's true committment to helping Charlie. The receptionists were always very friendly and concerned, the doctors are wonderful, and the vet's assistant (I"m sorry I can't remember his name) was always so good to Charlie. Unfortunately, Charlie developed another UTI a few weeks ago, and after bloodwork and a UA, was placed on meds again. He didn't bounce back this time. I came home on Tuesday night. He came to me, and I held him and hugged him and kissed him and told him how much I loved him. I put him down and he disappeared behind a table in the living room. I knew what was coming although I didn't want to admit it. He died within 10 minutes. He had his paws crossed and looked as though he was sleeping. I think he waited for me to come home. My daughter came to help me prepare to bring him to VNA the following morning. I have shed many tears for my sweet Charlie. I only hope he knew how much I loved him. I am so glad I was able to hold him one more time and let him know how much he meant to me. I've had him cremated because I didn't want him just discarded. This is the price we pay for allowing animals into our hearts, and I'm trying to remember that he had a good life. I miss him dearly, and I thank everyone at the VNA Shaker Road Animal Hospital for their wonderful care and support.