When you feel sorry for what 2020 has delivered in your life, remember Kara’s family and count your blessings. In September, the terrifying Holiday Farm fire consumed their home. The family escaped with their two cats, Alfie and Jasper.
“We escaped with nothing but the clothes on our back,” said Kara. “We didn't have time to pack a single thing.”
If that was not enough stress, the first night they spent in Cottage Grove, Alfie snuck/fell out a loose window screen and vanished into the night.
“Within an hour of Alfie’s disappearance, I began searching,” said Kara. “I am an animal person and would do anything for them. Our cats are FAMILY, so I searched all night long with no luck.
I was overwhelmed with Cottage Grove residents’ support and kindness. I met many caring people while passing out ‘Missing Cat’ flyers. I posted our kitty’s disappearance on Cottage Grove’s, What’s Up in Cottage Grove Facebook page. Everyone was helpful, although our $400 reward probably helped. Hundreds of people commented on Alfie’s LOST Facebook posting. A steady stream of people phoned and texted on paws-ible sightings.
We had adopted him and his brother, Jasper, when they were four months old. Their few-week-old litter was found in a box outside a gas station.
Eugene’s Cat Rescue and Adoption Network (C.R.A.N.) rehabilitated the babies purr-paring them for homes. Unknowingly, they had named Alfie after an old boyfriend of mine. My husband insisted on changing the exceptionally sweet kitty’s name to Alfie. Never once have these two kitties been mean to our young son (even when it is deserved). Alfie is not an elusive cat; he loves people and cuddles. He crawls into our laps any and every second of the day. He lovingly harasses us by rubbing
our legs and meowing his appreciation. He loves being played with, loves wrestling with his brother and both cats love treats even more. So, you can imagine our anxiety as Alfie’s missing days mounted to nearly two weeks.”
Kara had set up a live trap in their backyard. On day 13 their luck changed. Alfie was found in the cage. He had lost weight and his paws were bleeding from paws-ibly being chased up a tree and then sliding back down, but he was alive. He has made a full recovery and now he and Jasper spend their days safely in their outside catio and nights snuggled up to their family.
