The cat escaped the fire, but the body is still in a weakened state, the veterinarians are still trying to save it

A cat that survived a house-fire, suffering 3rd degree burns resulting in amputations, has spent the last year caring for other animals at the Animal Emergency Hospital & Urgent Care in North Carolina. Russel, who is still recovering despite a year of treatment, goes from room to room visiting other animals in distress. He won’t stop to rest unless he’s gently encouraged by the staff.

“He wants to meet all our patients. He just wants to be with them,” hospital staff told The Dodo. “I don’t know if he can sense that other animals are in pain…but he does seem to have some weird knack for connecting with patients.”

Russel may never fully recover, and recently had to have his feet operated on. However, donations have made it possible to live at the hospital full-time, where he will be loved and appreciated.