Joe the Cat has been released from the Blue Cross Animal Hospital and into the care of the Sarnia and District Humane Society.Joe, who caused an international furor over animal cruelty after being shot 17 times with a pellet gun, lost an eye but has otherwise full recovered from his wounds. He has also helped raise more than $37,000 that the shelter will use to assist other injured and abused animals.

Two men charged in connection with the shooting are still before the courts.

Here, Lee Randall, left, and Pam Robertson, right, members of the Parrot Head on the St. Clair committee, join Joe and shelter supervisor Donna Pyette.

A recent group event raised $1,730 for the cause.

Glenn Ogilvie Photo