A 12-year-old tabby cat survived a 380-foot fall at Utah’s Bryce Canyon National Park and was later adopted by the pilot who helped rescue her. In late April, a couple tragically died after falling from a popular lookout point above the canyon. Responding search and rescue crews discovered a dirt-covered pet carrier containing the couple’s cat, alive but bruised, with fractured ribs.
After being treated for her injuries at a veterinary hospital in Las Vegas, the cat recovered under the care of Best Friends Animal Society. The rescue team named her Mirage because of the story of her miraculous survival. Chelsea Tugaw, the Utah Department of Public Safety pilot who helped find Mirage during the rescue operation, says she was deeply moved and relieved to learn the cat survived the ordeal.
With the blessing of the late couple’s family, Tugaw adopted Mirage. Best Friends Animal Society celebrated the adoption as a hopeful moment following the tragic event. They describe Mirage’s story as a “second chance” and encourage others to consider adopting animals in need.
Source: ABC NEWS