The incredible story of Finn, the cat who miraculously found his way home after 12 years of absence, barely three kilometers from his home. A moving testimony of perseverance and hope.
In December 2011, Michelle Watkin had lost all hope of seeing Finn againher beloved cat who had disappeared after one of his nocturnal outings usual in Barnstaple, Devon, England. Finn, then only two years old, had left a void in his owner’s heart. During months, The Independent says that Michelle Watkin had walked the streets, put up posters and distributed leaflets, but to no avail. As the years pass, the hope of finding his feline companion was dwindling.
Then, almost twelve years latera phone call from Market Vets, the local veterinary clinic, would change the course of things. Clinic staff informed Michelle Watkin that a small male catmatching Finn’s description, had been found. Thanks to Finn’s microchip, his contact details were always up to date, allowing this long-awaited meeting.
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For your cat, the electronic chip: small device, big hope
This January 29, the little lost cat was brought to Market Vets by a local branch of the RSPCA after he was found wandering in an area near Michelle’s house. The veterinary staff did what was necessary to read Finn’s chip and immediately contacted Michelle. One hour later, Finn was back homemarking the end of a long separation.
Michelle Watkin shares her experienceemphasizing the crucial importance of the microchip: “ Finn became semi-feral, living outside, but luckily someone was feeding him. ” She adds, ” He is slowly adapting to domestic life and I am regaining his trust day by day. It will take time, but I’m just happy he’s finally home. »
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Tips Every Pet Owner Should Know
In England, chipping of pets is not only a recommended safety measure; It is a legal requirement for dogs and, from June 10, 2024, it will also be for cats (which is already the case in France). This law aims to increase the chances of reunion between lost animals and their owners, as Finn’s story demonstrates. Bill Lambert, of Kennel Clubs which runs Petlog, says: “ Chipping gives owners the best chance of finding their pet. »
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The government believes that there is more than nine million domestic cats in England, including up to 2.3 million without a microchip. With the implantation of a microchip, the size of a grain of rice, under the animal’s skin, owner contact details remain accessible to veterinarians, local authorities and health organizations animal protection. Michelle Watkin concludes with a powerful message for all pet owners: “ Never neglect chipping your animals, and above all, never lose hope. »