It is never okay to abandon a pet. In some cases, these animals are dropped off outside a shelter, but in many situations, the innocent creatures are left in a heartbreaking manner. Without the tireless work of rescue groups, lives would be lost. In this story, a small rescue center in Devon, England, was confronted with a heartbreaking discovery. A sealed helium balloon tank box was found abandoned by the side of a busy road. However, instead of a tank, the box contained a living creature—a young cat.
When rescuers tore open the box, they were met with the sight of a curious kitten poking his head out after being trapped inside. “He is a sweet boy and super friendly, though understandably a little freaked out at the moment,” Animals in Distress shared on Facebook about the rescued kitten.
The team quickly named the kitten Baloo and made arrangements for his veterinary care. As Baloo settled into the cattery at the rescue center, he started to enjoy the company of other cats and had access to plenty of toys to play with. His gentle and affectionate nature led rescuers to believe that he had once been someone’s pet.
“He must have been someone’s pet,” said Rowana Rowan, the communications coordinator for Animals in Distress, during an interview with The Dodo. “We can’t imagine who would do this.” Despite being abandoned, the team at the rescue center is relieved that Baloo is now safe and on a path to a more stable and loving life.
“Cases like these are heartbreaking for the rescue teams that deal with them,” Rowan explained. “But it’s incredibly rewarding to see animals like Baloo come out of their shell and go on to live happy lives after such a rough start.”
Baloo’s story is a reminder of the cruelty some animals face, but thanks to the dedication of rescue centers like Animals in Distress, he now has a chance at a brighter future.
These abusers are facing numerous charges of animal abuse, but we must also ensure they never own or interact with pets again and receive counseling for their twisted psychological states.
Baloo’s survival was dependent on someone finding him in time. He would have never made it on his own. Please share this story and spread the word to others: there is never an excuse to leave an animal behind. We are relieved Baloo was rescued. Some animals aren’t so lucky. To meet Baloo, click on the video below.