Legs Comes Inside

Legs is an old man now, maybe 15 or 16 and is the last of the Tuxedo Colony. He's been inside in the M*A*S*H unit a time or two for medical care so it's not totally brand new but this feral guy likes his freedom and even though he's stayed primarily in the yard of late, he needs more care. In the last month or two he's lost weight and generally become more fragile. I'm in constant conversation with him about coming in. He's only wanted to be outside and each time I've tried to bring him in he will allow me to hold him but loses it when we get near the house door. Gravity trap has been tried- he won't enter it. Drop trap is more trauma than I wanted to bring him in with if possible.

Yesterday as I checked in on the feral cam, he was sitting by the back door. I knew it was the day. I called a friend over to manage all doors and carried him in to the M*A*S*H unit. Here he can stay for maybe a few days while he gets used to the sounds and rhythms of the house.

I promised him I would look after him when he was too old to do it by himself and that time has come.

Hopefully he will soon explore the house, the catio and eat wet food without interruption.

My heart is both full and aching.

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