Wendell Overton is an animal lover from Manteo, North Carolina. In 2013, the 10-year-old boy was walking through his neighborhood when he saw a shocking sight.
Wendell saw a group of kids, ranging in age from 5-13, abusing an innocent cat.
The kids threw the cat in the air, and then they kicked him. They also repeatedly ran him over with their bicycles. Wendell knew that if he didn’t do something, the cat was going to die. And so, Wendell ran over to the group of kids and told them to stop. They ignored him at first, but Wendell refused to give up.
“I’m not leaving without this cat!” Wendell shouted.
Wendell took the cat from them and ran home. Once he was safe, he and his mom called the Outer Banks SPCA.
Wendell and his mom brought the cat over to the SPCA, where he was rushed into treatment. The SPCA also gave the stray cat a name, Jackson. The SPCA was grateful to Wendell for his brave actions, and they posted a photo of him on their Facebook page along with his story.
Wendell’s photo and story quickly went viral. Everyone was amazed by this young boy’s bravery and his determination! Many people sent letters to Wendell thanking him for what he did.
Over the next two weeks, Jackson started recovering from his injuries. As Jackson recovered, the SPCA began looking for the right home for the sweet cat. An animal rescue in New York, North Shore Animal League, offered to take Jackson in, and the SPCA agreed. Once Jackson was well enough, he went to his new home in New York.
Jackson wasn’t at North Shore for long, though.
Soon, a couple named Joe and Jennifer Marinelli adopted him and took him home. Jackson loved his new parents, and he also got along well with his new cat sister.
“Jackson is the sweetest, most trusting and loving creature one could ever hope for! We feel that it’s an honor to have him in our lives!” Jennifer Marinelli wrote on Facebook.
Wendell and the staff at the Outer Banks SPCA were happy to hear that Jackson had ended up in such a good home.
Jackson has now been with the Marinellis for more than five years, and he’s as happy as can be. The cat loves cuddling with his parents, and he also likes hanging out with sister. The cat has a great life in Long Island, and it’s all thanks to Wendell’s bravery!
Wendell is a courageous boy who refused to stand by and watch a group of bullies abuse an innocent cat. Wendell is a true hero!
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