Who Rescued Who? The Story of Rick the Cat

This story is told by Karma Cat + Zen Dog Rescue Society volunteer Rebecca.

Cats often come into our lives when we don’t even know we need them.  This was the case with our dear cat Rick.

On April 10, 2022 I was asked to visit the parking lot of Magic 98.3, a local radio station we partner with to share our rescue efforts with the community. There were reports of a black cat in the parking lot that needed to be trapped, neutered, and returned (TNR). TNR programs have been shown to improve the lives of feral cats and their relationships with humans around them, decreasing feral colony size over time.

The TNR assignment that changed my life

Upon arriving at the parking lot, I spotted the black cat. I noticed that he was already ear-tipped, a sign that he had already participated in a TNR program. As is normal practice, I continued with the original plan to ensure he was healthy and didn’t need any further medical care.

Once I set down the trap and sat next to it, the cat walked up to me, asking for pets and cuddles, and even jumped into my lap. His sweet demeanor made it obvious that this cute guy didn’t need to live outside the rest of his life – he was way too friendly. However, at this point, I had no clue if my cats would be ok with me bringing in an outsider or if this cat could become an adoptable Karma Cat.

At that exact moment, I received a phone call informing me that my close friend, Rick, had passed away that morning. In that moment of grief, the cat, who has since been appropriately named Rick, was there to comfort me.  We needed each other at the same time.

A bright future

Since leaving that parking lot, Rick the Cat qualified to become an adoptable cat. We spent the next week together in my foster room, and I am happy I was able to take care of him until he could be adopted. I’ll never forget how he was by my side during such a difficult time.

At last, Rick the Cat’s lucky day came. In May 2022, he was adopted by a loving family.

Our rescue society changed Rick the Cat’s life, he changed mine, and he will continue to change the lives of his adopters. Three lives have been made better. And so, I ask, who really rescued who?

To learn more about how Karma Cat + Zen Dog Rescue Society has been involved with TNR, please click here, or donate to contribute to the cause.