As pet parents, we visit pet stores expecting to see happy, healthy animals ready for their forever homes. But for Daisy Napoles, a 28-year-old mom from California, a trip to her local PetSmart in Modesto on August 19 turned into a heartbreaking encounter.
Spotting a kitten named Buddy covered in fleas, Daisy’s viral TikTok video has sparked a call for better pet care in adoption centers. Here’s Buddy’s story, what went wrong, and how pet parents can advocate for animals in need.
A Shocking Sight at PetSmart
While browsing the PetSmart store at 2100 McHenry Ave in Modesto, Daisy noticed a white kitten named Buddy asleep in a kennel. What caught her eye wasn’t his “extremely friendly and independent” description or $130 adoption fee, but the fleas visibly crawling through his fur.
“My heart was breaking seeing him sleep through his discomfort in a tiny glass box,” Daisy told Snugglesouls. “He was very obviously full of fleas—anyone could have seen it. I’m not sure how it got to that point, and nothing had been done.”
Buddy, just a few months old, had been at the store since June 21, neutered and vaccinated, yet his condition suggested neglect. Daisy, a foster mom to five 1-week-old kittens, was devastated.
Unable to speak to busy staff while managing her toddler, she shared a video on TikTok (@life.ofadaisy) to raise awareness. The clip, showing Buddy’s flea infestation, exploded with over 782,000 views and 50,000 likes, igniting a wave of concern and outrage online.
PetSmart’s Response and the Bigger Picture
PetSmart responded to Newsweek, emphasizing that the “safety and well-being of pets is their top priority.” They clarified that their adoption centers are managed by local animal-welfare organizations responsible for medical care.
“As soon as we were made aware of the concerns regarding Buddy, we immediately notified the local partner to take action,” their statement read. Buddy was promptly removed for veterinary care, other animals were checked, and the adoption center was cleaned and sanitized.
While PetSmart took swift action, Daisy’s experience highlights a broader issue: the strain on shelters and pet stores. Overcrowded facilities and limited resources can lead to oversights, even for well-meaning organizations. Daisy noted, “Some were understanding and knew that it takes a lot of work to care for so many animals, and our shelters are so full and in need of volunteers and funds.”
Why Fleas Are a Serious Concern for Cats
Fleas aren’t just a nuisance—they can cause significant health issues, especially for young kittens like Buddy. According to veterinary experts, fleas can lead to:
- Anemia: Severe infestations can cause blood loss, particularly dangerous for small or young cats.
- Skin Infections: Constant scratching can lead to open wounds and infections.
- Parasite Transmission: Fleas can carry tapeworms or other pathogens, posing further risks.
- Discomfort and Stress: Itching and irritation can distress cats, impacting their well-being.
For more on flea prevention, see our guide to cat flea treatments.
How Pet Parents Can Advocate for Shelter Animals
Daisy’s decision to share Buddy’s story turned a moment of heartbreak into a call for action. Here’s how you can help animals like Buddy:
- Speak Up: If you see an animal in distress at a store or shelter, alert staff immediately. If they’re unresponsive, contact the managing rescue organization.
- Support Shelters: Volunteer, donate, or foster to ease the burden on overcrowded facilities. Daisy, fostering five kittens herself, knows the impact of small actions.
- Adopt, Don’t Shop: Consider adopting from shelters or PetSmart’s adoption centers, like those run by local groups such as Saving Lives Animal Rescue or Kitty Haven Modesto.
- Raise Awareness: Share concerns responsibly, as Daisy did, to push for better care systems without vilifying overworked shelters or stores.
- Check on Adopted Pets: Ensure adopted pets receive prompt vet care, including flea treatments, to prevent issues like Buddy’s.
Daisy’s hope is clear: “It doesn’t have to be your life’s mission, but if you see a tiny life in need, do you help it? I hope people can start spreading more kindness and empathy toward our tiny cats and dogs that give us so much unconditional love.”
A Community United for Buddy
The response to Daisy’s video was overwhelming, with over 1,400 comments expressing shock and support. “That’s horrifying, thank you for doing something,” one user wrote. Another added, “My outside cats get treated way better than this! Makes me so upset!”
While some criticized pet stores or shelters, others acknowledged the challenges of caring for countless animals with limited resources.
Buddy’s story is a reminder that advocacy starts with awareness. Thanks to Daisy’s video, Buddy received the care he needed, and her call to action inspires pet parents to step up for animals in need.
Takeaway for Pet Parents
If you spot an animal in distress, act quickly and compassionately—whether by alerting staff, supporting shelters, or fostering. Like Daisy, you can make a difference for cats like Buddy, ensuring they find the love and care they deserve.
FAQ
Q: What should I do if I see a pet in poor condition at a store or shelter?
Immediately notify staff or the managing rescue organization. If unresolved, share concerns responsibly on social media to raise awareness, as Daisy did.
Q: How can I help overcrowded shelters?
Volunteer, donate supplies or funds, or foster animals to ease the strain. Adopting from shelters like North Shore Animal League or local rescues also helps.
Q: Why are fleas dangerous for cats like Buddy?
Fleas can cause anemia, skin infections, and parasite transmission, especially in young or vulnerable cats. Prompt veterinary care is essential.
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