Wednesday, November 11, 2015

Kitten in distress rescued from Virginia Beach storm drain

VIRGINIA -- An animal control officer is being credited with saving a kitten from drowning in a storm drain near the Virginia Beach oceanfront.

A citizen heard the 5-week-old black kitten crying for help on Oct. 30 around 12 p.m. near the intersection of Laskin Road and Pacific Avenue, according to Virginia Beach Animal Control.

Rebecca Franklin, an animal control supervisor, tells 8News sister station WAVY-TV 10 Officer J.C. McGuffin responded to the drain and with the help of citizens lifted the storm drain to see the domestic short hair was struggling to stay above water.


Franklin says McGuffin soon realized the only way to help the animal was to get into the storm drain.

“That’s not something our officers would typically do, as they are not required to go into any confined spaces or climb ladders,” said Franklin.

McGuffin was able to successfully rescue the kitten, which the shelter has since named Mr. Clean.

“McGuffin changed the course of this kittens life that day,” said Franklin. “While I believe that all animal control professionals do wonderful work, it’s nice to see their hard work and dedication to both the citizens and the animals in everyday circumstances such as this one.”

Franklin says Mr. Clean was evaluated by a veterinarian and given a clean bill of health.

“He has remained with us since that day, and is now ready to be placed with a foster family until he is big enough and old enough to be adopted,” said Franklin. “Mr. Clean is enjoying spending time with other kittens his age and getting visits from all the shelter staff who have heard about his harrowing ‘tail.’”

Those interested in adopting Mr. Clean can contact the Virginia Beach Animal Care and Adoption Center at (757) 385-4444.

(WRIC - Nov 5, 2015)

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