Posted: September 23, 2008, 3 a.m. EDT
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Courtesy of the ASPCA |
A 10-year-old red tabby from Middleburg, Pa., named Libby took on a role that’s usually associated with dogs: She served as a guide cat to her best friend, a senior yellow Lab/Shar Pei mix named Cashew, who was blind and deaf.
Libby helped her canine companion with everyday tasks, steered the blind dog away from bumping into obstacles and guided Cashew to her food. The guide cat has been recognized by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals with a Humane Award in the category of Cat of the Year.
Libby was a true friend and hero to Cashew, according to the ASPCA, and their deep-rooted friendship showed that animals of different species — even cats and dogs — can understand and help each other overcome hurdles.
Following a nationwide call to the public for nominations in February, an ASPCA-appointed committee sifted through hundreds of entries and selected winners in eight categories. The humane awards will be presented at a special luncheon Oct. 30 at the Rainbow Room in Rockefeller Center.