Domino’s Drama – How The Cat Butler Thame Came to the Rescue

Introduction

When you go away on holiday, you want the reassurance that your beloved pets are in safe, capable hands. That’s exactly why Domino and Pepper’s family chose The Cat Butler Thame. But little did they know that, during their time away, Domino would face a frightening ordeal that required urgent veterinary care.

Thanks to the quick thinking and dedication of Cat Butlers Andy and Sam Heggie, Domino received the immediate help he needed – turning what could have been a tragic situation into a happy ending.

A Routine Visit Turns Serious

On 26th August 2025, Andy Heggie, co-owner of The Cat Butler Thame, arrived for a routine visit to see Domino and immediately knew something was wrong.

The day before, Andy’s wife and fellow franchisee, Sam, had visited Domino and his feline companion, Pepper. While Pepper came to greet her, Domino was nowhere to be seen. “We thought this was unusual,” Andy explains. “Domino is timid and doesn’t often stay away for long. Despite all of Sam’s food bowl-bashing, name calling and Dreamie-rustling efforts, he didn’t make an appearance.”

The following morning, Domino’s owner, Sarah, let Andy and Sam know that he had been seen coming back through the cat flap – reassuring at the time – until Andy discovered him lying injured later that day. 

Acting Quickly in an Emergency

Andy contacted the vet immediately, explained the situation, and was told to bring Domino to the animal hospital without delay. “I located his pet carrier, gave him a calming stroke and some reassuring words – bless him – as he was obviously stressed and in pain, and we set off,” Andy says.

While Andy drove Domino to Hampden Veterinary Animal Hospital in Aylesbury, Sam stayed in close contact with owners Sarah and Ian, as well as their emergency contacts, so everyone was kept updated. Within ten minutes of arrival, Domino was admitted. Radiographs revealed an injury that required surgery on his hip. A few days later, he underwent a femoral head and neck ostectomy operation.

Relief For Domino's Family

It was an anxious time for Sarah and Ian, who were away on holiday with their children and had no family nearby to step in. Knowing that Andy and Sam had acted so quickly was a huge relief, and Domino remained in excellent hands throughout his stay.

After a few nights in hospital, Domino was discharged and is now recovering at home. He will be crate-bound for several months but is receiving plenty of love and fuss from his family, with Pepper keeping him company.

A Happy Ending For Domino

Stories like Domino’s highlight not only the bravery of our feline friends but also the dedication and professionalism of our Cat Butlers. By acting swiftly, calmly, and with compassion, Sam and Andy ensured that Domino had the best possible chance of recovery and gave his family peace of mind at a very difficult time.

You can read more about Domino’s story on Hampden Veterinary Hospital’s Facebook page.

From everyone at The Cat Butler, we wish Domino a smooth and speedy recovery.

Sandra James

Owner & Founder

The Cat Butler was set up by Sandra James in recognition of the fact that a stay in a cattery can be unsettling for many cats and also their owners.