The Discovery
In 2018, Kermit was dropped off at the animal hospital where Emily McKinney worked. He had been found abandoned behind a 7-Eleven when he was just six to eight weeks old — tiny, alone, and already unmistakably Kermit-shaped.
The Story
From a 7-Eleven Dumpster to the Blockchain
"He was found dumped behind a 7-Eleven at about six to eight weeks old. I almost named him Slurpee, but the frog appearance was hard to ignore. Kermit quickly stole my heart and the rest is history."
— Emily McKinney, Kermit's owner
Short Spine Syndrome
As a kitten, nothing seemed unusual. But as he grew, his torso stayed short. X-rays revealed Kermit is missing six vertebrae and three ribs. The vertebrae he does have are fused and crooked — a rare condition more commonly seen in dogs, but cats can have it too.
Against the Odds
Specialists weren't sure how long he'd stay mobile. Some even recommended euthanasia. Emily committed to giving him the best short life possible. Eight years later, Kermit is still zooming up and down the stairs every single day.
A Full, Happy Life
As a kitten he dealt with constipation and mild megacolon, and was on laxatives and prescription food for his first year — but he outgrew those issues. Today, Kermit lives a very full and happy life in Richmond with no specific accommodations needed.