When someone’s in danger, most people depend on first responders. But there are plenty of stories of parents, other family members, friends, and even neighbors willing to do whatever it takes to save a person’s life.
But did you know that animals aren’t that much different from humans? Although it’s not uncommon for them to go to extremes to save their own, some are braver than others. As you’re about to learn, that’s the story of one momma cat.
Garage fire
The story begins when Brooklyn, New York firefighters were called to the scene of a garage fire. But when they arrived, they saw something they never expected. Usually, it’s humans running around frantically…but not this time.
Saving her babies
What they witnessed upon arrival was a cat bringing a kitten out in her mouth. But she didn’t stop there. This sweet momma went back inside the burning building, not two, three, or even four times, but she made a total of five trips to get her kittens out.
Her name is Scarlett
This determined momma cat wasn’t going to leave any of her babies behind…even if that meant losing her life. She wasn’t worried about herself only the precious lives of her kittens.
Severely burned
Despite the intense heat, she didn’t stop until they were all outside. But this momma suffered serious injuries. According to David Giannelli, one of the first responding firefighters, “Scarlett herself had been severely burned in the process of pulling her kittens from the fire.
Her injuries were bad
Giannelli went on to share, “Her eyes were blistered shut, her ears and paws burned, and her coat highly singed.” It was a horrific ordeal and she desperately needed medical attention. She was so bad that she almost looked dead.
Distinguishing the flames
Although the firefighters were worried about Scarlett and her babies, they still had a job to do. That meant getting the fire under control, which they did quickly. Unfortunately, the homeowner’s property sustained major damage.
Seeking emergency care for Scarlett
With their job done, they could then focus all their attention on Scarlett and her kittens. They rushed her to a veterinary clinic. Sadly, one of the babies didn’t make it. But on a positive note, the other four did.
The full extent of her injuries
As for Scarlett, most of her facial hair was gone. Even in her tragic situation, this sweet momma touched each of her kittens with her nose to make sure they were okay. After all, she couldn’t see. Regardless of what happened to her, she was still worried about her babies.
Now, it was her turn
Once she knew her kittens were fine, she settled down so that vet could focus on her. But it didn’t take long before Scarlett collapsed and slipped into an unconscious state.
Her recovery took time
Although it took time for her to heal, she did. Today, she still has some physical reminders of the fire, particularly her eyes but no one cares about that…she’s alive.
A happy ending
All four of Scarlett’s kittens found loving forever homes. As for this remarkable momma, she’s doing quite well. The North Shore Animal League was so impressed by her bravery that they created the Scarlett Award to Animal Heroism.
This very special award goes to a single deserving cat at the Lewyt Humane Awards Luncheon held annually. Everyone loves and admires Scarlett. This is one amazing momma cat.
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Source: Sunny Skyz, Tintucmoingay, Flickr/Peter J Hill
