California Hiker Witnesses Heartbreaking Scene As Cat Is Thrown From A Car
While hiking one of her favorite trails in Riverside County Regional Park, California, Jess Estrada witnessed something she’ll never forget. What was supposed to be a peaceful outing turned into a life-saving mission for an animal in desperate need.
Jess was taking a break on the trail when she saw a car pull over at the top of the hill. What happened next left her in shock.
A woman stepped out of the car, walked to the edge of the trail, and threw a cat into the bushes. As Jess shared on Instagram:
“At the summit, I witnessed a woman get out of her car and throw a cat into the bushes. The poor thing ran back toward her, and she grabbed it, only to throw it again. I was in complete shock.”
Without hesitation, Jess rushed to the area where the cat had landed. What she found was a senior cat, terrified and distressed, crying out and huddled in the bushes. The poor thing was completely disoriented and vulnerable.
Jess knew she couldn’t leave the scared animal behind:
“I barely caught a clip of her driving off, but I knew I had to act fast. I contacted Animal Control and connected with an incredible Riverside Park Ranger named Jay. She was kind, compassionate, and immediately jumped into action.”
The ranger quickly assured Jess that she had done the right thing. With predators like coyotes and snakes in the area, the abandoned cat, later named Joey, wouldn’t have survived long on his own.
With the help of another park ranger, they gently placed Joey into a carrier and transported him to safety.
“Jay confirmed the cat was elderly and domesticated, and likely wouldn’t have survived the night out there with coyotes and snakes nearby. With help from her coworker, Cindy, who brought a cat box, we were able to gently rescue the cat and get it safely to an animal shelter.”
Throughout the entire rescue, Joey never stopped crying, a heartbreaking sound that made it clear just how confused and frightened he was.
Joey was brought to a local animal shelter where he received care, food, and a safe place to rest. A month later, Jess visited the shelter to check in on him, and he still remembered her.
“He is ready to be adopted. Look at how cute he is!”
Although Jess wasn’t in a position to adopt Joey herself, she made sure to visit him, comfort him, and show him that he was loved. Their reunion was emotional, and Joey’s reaction made it clear that he hadn’t forgotten the person who saved his life.
It didn’t take long for someone else to fall in love with Joey. Shortly after his recovery, he was adopted into a loving forever home where he’s now thriving.
What started as a horrifying moment turned into a rescue story with a happy ending, all because one person chose to act.
“To whoever reads this: animals are not disposable. Please speak up when you see something wrong. You might be the only chance they have.”
Remember that speaking up for those who can’t speak for themselves is always the right thing to do.
