Shelter animals almost always look down and depressed while they wait to find a new home, and it’s heartbreaking.

When Sandra was scrolling through Instagram, she came across a video shared by the Animal Humane Society of Minnesota.

It featured the story of a cat named Mr. Bruce Willis.

Yes, just like the actor.

After the shelter’s examination, they estimated that he had been living on the streets for 7 years. He was in rough shape, with a lot of scars.

Winters in Minnesota can be harsh, with temperatures reaching as low as -30° F. So they could only imagine what he had been through.

He looked so sad and tired – as if he had lived a very rough life.

Sandra knew that the rules of her lease wouldn’t allow for any pets, but was so heartbroken by his story. She went to visit the shelter anyway.

Once she saw Mr. Willis with her own eyes, sitting behind the glass, she knew she wanted to help him.

“It broke my heart. I actually had to leave because it made me so sad.” – Sandra

Mr. Willis had tested positive for FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus), which made him more vulnerable to catching illnesses or infections. You could see from his condition that he was not a healthy cat.

Sandra went to the shelter multiple times to visit Mr. Willis, and after almost a month of him not being adopted, she called her landlord.

She explained the situation and pleaded with them to make an exception and let her bring the sad cat home.

To her surprise, they said they would allow it. Then it all became very real.

“I want to say that I got super happy, but to be honest I kind of freaked out. I was like ‘Oh my god, here I am, getting this sick cat.” – Sandra

She went to pick him up the next day, but was feeling pretty overwhelmed about his health condition and how much care he would require. Not only would it be hard to watch him go through his health challenges, but it would also be expensive.

But she had developed such a strong bond and a love for Mr. Willis, that she knew she couldn’t leave him there.

She took on the task of being a new mom for this stray cat.

She brought him back to her apartment and later said she believes he knew he was home right away.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen a happier cat in my life before.” – Sandra

He took a walk around the apartment, then laid down and started purring.

He hadn’t purred since being rescued by the shelter, so Sandra was thrilled.

Mr. Willis didn’t stop purring all night – he was finally a happy cat!

Since being adopted by Sanda, Mr. Willis is doing much better. He had to have two of his teeth removed, and was taking some cat medicine.

His eyes have cleared up, his mouth is healed, and he’s looking much healthier.

He now has more than 70,000 followers on Instagram, where his mom posts adorable photos of him.

He still looks a little bit sad sometimes, but you can tell he is living his best life!

The internet loves Mr. Willis, and everyone acknowledges what an angel Sandra is for taking on the responsibility of bringing him home.

This is a beautiful example of why it’s best to adopt instead of shop for a new cat.

You can make a difference in the life of an animal that needs you most.

Just like adorable Mr. Willis here.

Watch the video below for more details about his story!

Please SHARE this with your friends and family.

Source: Instagram, Mr. Willis the Cat