Youngstown Teenager Receives PETA Award for Helping Grievously Injured Kitten

18-Year-Old Took the Shirt off His Back to Carry Cat and Seek Emergency Aid

For Immediate Release:
June 2, 2016

Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382

A Compassionate Action Award is on its way from PETA to Antwuan Reese, who spotted an injured kitten on the side of Parkview Avenue on Memorial Day. Although Reese is allergic to cats, the 18-year-old took off his shirt, wrapped up the kitten—whose face was covered with maggots—and started carrying the animal home. He soon encountered a 21 WFMJ news team, which called in humane authorities to rush the kitten to a veterinarian. Because of the severity of the cat’s condition, veterinarians determined that euthanasia was the kindest option available.

“Thanks to Antwuan’s huge heart, this tiny kitten was spared the agony of slowly dying alone on the side of the road,” says PETA Vice President Colleen O’Brien. “PETA hopes his kindness and selflessness will inspire others to come to the aid of animals in need.”

PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way”—also reminds all cat guardians that the safest place for their companions is indoors. Cats who are allowed to roam outdoors may contract diseases such as feline AIDS, be hit by cars, or even be hurt by cruel people. All animal companions, including cats, should be escorted outdoors on a leash and a safe, secure harness.

Reese will receive a framed certificate and a box of delicious vegan cookies.

For more information about helping animals, please visit PETA.org.

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