A PAIR of cats have discovered a new leash of life – as mountain moggies.
Rescue cats Lumos and Nox love nothing better than being slipped into a harness and taken meowt and about in the Scottish glens with owner Ruby Shorrock.
The 24-year-old said the fresh air and spectacular views had given the pair their nine lives back, after they nearly died as kittens.
Their mum delivered them in a damp greenhouse, where they suffered several attacks from rats.
Lumos had her right ear removed after one vicious vermin assault.
They were rescued when a worried passer-by alerted the Cats Protection League in Arbroath and they were scooped up by a charity worker.
A call went out for loving owners and vet Ruby was chosen from hundreds of hopeful candidates.
“I guess I was chosen because I could offer them a lifetime of veterinary care,” said Ruby of Drumchapel, Glasgow.
“It was touch-and-go if they would make it because they were suffering from malnutrition.
“The mother was struggling to feed them. Against all odds they thrived, thanks to good care.
“They needed a loving home and I could certainly provide that.
“I am a huge Harry Potter fan and named them after spells from the books.”
And the speed of their recovery left Ruby surprised and delighted.
They now boast glossy coats and strong limbs but their injuries mean they can’t wander about in the garden as they are unable to defend themselves against other cats and bigger animals.
“So I hit on the idea of taking them out on a lead,” said Ruby.
“They took to it so well, we’ve ventured further and further.”
The most challenging peak they’ve conquered as a group is the 1491ft Ben A’an in the Trossachs.
“As it was their first major climb I carried them back down on my rucksack,” said Ruby. “That way they avoided dogs with their walkers.”
She added: “I love hill-walking. It’s wonderful to be able to share that passion with Lumos and Nox.
“It’s a joy to see them thrive and explore the great outdoors. They really love it and love exploring.
“When we pass people, they ask, ‘Are they really cats?’
“A group of Belgian tourists we encountered during one of our walks could hardly believe their eyes.”
Ruby’s day job is at Pets’n’Vets Family Veterinary group in Scotland.
But she’s also set up a charity in her own time – Trusty Paws – which provides free treatment to the dogs of homeless owners who would otherwise be unable to afford medical aid.
Ruby said: “For the homeless, there is a reliance on their dogs, mentally and emotionally. The dog isn’t going to lie to them or steal from them.
“Sometimes it is the only thing they can trust. There is often an extremely strong relationship. They will do anything for them.”
Her work with homeless pets mirrors the feat she has performed with Lumos and Nox.
“We’ve formed an incredible bond and love being out in the spectacular scenery we have right on our doorstep,” Ruby added.
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