A caring cat has beaten off competition from hundreds of others to make the finals of a national pet award, for helping his owner overcome alcoholism.
Four-year-old Frank showed “constant companionship” and “loyalty” to his owner Robin Barry, who was suffering from a life-ruining alcohol problem.
Now, the black-and-white puss, from Romney, Kent, has been shortlisted for the Cat’s Protection National Cat Award, beating off hundreds of others to make the final three.
Listed in the ‘better together’ category, which celebrates the special bond between pets and their owners, Frank now faces a nerve-wracking wait before the ceremony on August 5 in the Savoy hotel in London.
Robin, 38, said: “I was in a rehabilitation unit and in a very bad way when my wife Helen decided to get this kitten.
“I’m the first to admit I was always more of a dog person and couldn’t see what the fuss was about at first.
“But when I got home and met Frank, my heart just melted. He became my number one supporter, following me about and being a constant companion.
“I was on a lot of medication and was very vulnerable and lost but Frank never left my side. With his support, I came through the other side.”
Two years later, Robin returned the favour by forking out two grand on a vet’s bill to fix Frank’s twisted gut.
He said: “We had no insurance and the vet’s bill was going to be £2,000.
“My wife and I had been saving for a holiday with all the money I had not spent on alcohol.
“But there was never any question of what we should do – Frank saved my life and we were able to save his by paying for the best possible care.
“We would never be without him and I feel lucky every day to have such an amazing cat by my side.”
If Frank wins his category, he will also be in with a chance of being crowned National Cat of the Year, following in the paw prints of previous winner Nelson, a one-eyed former stray from County Durham, who survived near-drowning and 15 years living rough.
Cats Protection’s awards organiser Kate Bunting said: “Frank and Robin clearly have a close bond and it’s truly touching to hear how they have both helped each other.
“Frank is a great example of the loyalty, companionship and joy that cats bring to the lives of their owners.”
A spokesman from Purina, which sponsors the award, said: “We are delighted to celebrate our long- standing support of Cats Protection and the amazing work it does by once again sponsoring its National Cat Awards.”
