Staff at the Humane Society of North Texas first saw Elmer, a scared kitten covered in industrial-strength glue.

A passerby found the four-month-old kitten in a bucket of glue near an industrial area.

The glue covered his head, ears, mouth, and nose. It was all over his body.

Staff had to remove the glue before it hardened and blocked his breathing.

After care, Elmer was free. He is thriving in his new home.

When Elmer arrived, nobody knew how to remove the glue.

It was a first for everybody. They tried different methods.

Dish soap and oil failed, but canola oil worked.

Staff spent six hours massaging Elmer with oil and washing him.

Elmer was shaking and lethargic, but very tolerant.

A staff member took Elmer home to continue treatment overnight.

Elmer let staff do what they needed to do. He got used to the attention.

Leah Owens fostered Elmer, but decided to keep him.

Owens and Elmer fell in love. She knew she loved him.

Elmer brought joy to Owens' life after her husband's death.

Owens felt empty, but Elmer perked things up.

Owens had to write an email to keep Elmer due to many adoption applications.

Owens was hesitant, but decided to keep Elmer.

Owens wrote the email in the parking lot and decided to keep him.

Owens is overwhelmed with media attention, but encourages fostering animals.

Fostering helps shelters and is rewarding. Owens encourages adoption.

Elmer is settling in well. He is fearless, playful, and affectionate.

Elmer is a sweet kitty. He bites Owens' chin.