A black cat rescued from behind a fire line in British Columbia was safely reunited with his family after suffering burned paws, dehydration, and days of uncertainty.
Named Whisky because of his singed whiskers, the cat was later identified as Salem after his story of survival spread online.
Here's what to know
The BC SPCA said a rescuer came across Salem in hazardous, smoke-filled conditions behind the fire line.
After he was taken to a veterinary hospital, staff found that he was dehydrated, had severely burned paw pads, and had an ear mite infestation.
The BC SPCA said veterinarians treated him with pain medication, fluids, wound treatment, and frequent bandage changes. Once he had improved enough to leave the hospital, he was transferred to a foster home to continue healing in a safer setting.
Even before he recovered, Salem showed signs that he was used to living with people.
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"No one has come forward to claim him yet, but he has to belong to someone," BC SPCA Veterinary Hospital Manager Candace Brodie said. "He is litter-trained and is a nice cat."
The breakthrough came after the BC SPCA posted his story and photo on social media. A family displaced by the wildfire recognized him as their missing cat, and he was reunited with them.
More background
Salem's case is one example of how wildfires disrupt the lives of pets as well as people. Families forced to leave quickly can be separated from their animals, and reunions can be hard when evacuees are displaced and emergency restrictions limit access to communities.
After he was brought to safety, Salem recovered quickly. The BC SPCA said he was showing improvement and that his personality was beginning to shine through.
"He is quite feisty now that he is off his meds and alert," foster caregiver Theresa said.
What can be done?
Salem's rescue took place during a broader wildfire response. The organization said it boarded 108 wildfire-affected pets during the season, including dogs, cats, kittens, puppies, and even a gecko.
The agency also said Animal Protection Officers cared for dozens of animals in those communities when residents were unable to evacuate with them.
Keeping microchip information current and making sure pets have up-to-date identification tags can ensure reunions after a disaster.
Where can I learn more?
The articles below look at pets and wildlife rescued from wildfires, dangerous conditions, and neglect.
• In Cyprus, rescuers saved more than 180 pets and rushed burn victims to veterinarians.
• A starving British shorthair became a playful house cat.
• Rescuers in Vietnam found a flea-covered cat in trash, and he later thrived in Canada.
• In California, a wildlife center protected dozens of bird eggs after wildfires tore through nests.
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