Vets had removed both his ears and nose in a bid to clear him of skin cancer.
And, although the operation was a success, poor Charlie was left bearing an uncanny resemblance to the evil character, played by Ralph Fiennes in the blockbuster films.
People were so put off, staff at The Blue Cross animal centre in Southampton, Hants, struggled to rehome him.
But things are now finally looking up for the ugly moggy - he's got a new owner after he won over the hearts of the nation.
Harry Potter fan Sarah Gaden was just one of thousands of people who fell in love with Charlie after reading his heart-wrenching story.
And the 45-year-old property lawyer was the first one to contact the centre with an offer to take him under her wing.
Miss Gaden, who lives alone in Worthing, West Sussex, said it must have been magic that had brought her and Charlie together.
She explained: "I had to have my cat, Tom, put down in January after 16 years together and I vowed I'd never have another.
"But fate or magic must have brought Charlie to me.
"When I read his heart-breaking story I fell in love with him immediately and was desperate to give him a loving home.
"I think the Harry Potter films are fantastic and I noticed the resemblance to Voldemort but it didn't put me off.
"I didn't think he was ugly - he looked like he had character and he just needed someone to love and care for him.
"I knew I could give him a good home and he'd be such good company for me - my house had been so empty since Tom had died.
"I contacted the centre immediately after spotting Charlie's story and they responded the same day.
"I was delighted when they told me I was the first person to make an offer for him and asked if would like to come and meet him.
"It really was love at first sight. He may look at bit different but he's so friendly and I think he's beautiful.
"Charlie seems to be a bit of a celebrity now and it's a bit of a big responsibility giving him a new home.
"But I'm confident we're going to get on just fine. I'm going to make him feel welcome and loved."
Read more at The Telegraph
No comments:
Post a Comment