From the Side of the Road to a Forever Home: Trooper & Ember’s Story

Some of our most meaningful rescues happen when we least expect them, and Trooper and Ember are the perfect example.

While driving after letting a friend’s dog out, our foster coordinator spotted a tiny kitten dart into the road. Pulling over to make sure the kitten was safe led to something much bigger. Behind an abandoned building, two kittens were hiding: Trooper and Ember.

It was immediately clear that Trooper was in critical condition. He was emaciated, anemic, severely dehydrated, and barely had the energy to move. Thankfully, he was safely captured that day and was able to receive fluids and urgent care later that same day.

The next day, we returned for Ember. While she was in much better condition than her brother, she still needed the safety and care that rescue provides.

Just when we thought Trooper was on the mend, another scare hit. A few days later, we discovered a bloody wound beneath his neck and rushed him to the vet. There, our incredible veterinary partners at Cascade found the cause; a botfly larva (botworm) had been living under his skin. Thanks to their quick action and expert care, the botworm was safely removed, and Trooper finally had the chance to truly heal.

From that point on, both Trooper and Ember began to thrive in foster care; gaining strength, confidence, and showing their sweet, playful personalities.

And the best part? Their story gets the happy ending every rescue hopes for. This month, Trooper and Ember were adopted together by their foster’s co-worker. Now, they’re safe, healthy, and living the life they always deserved together.

What started as a quick stop on the side of the road turned into a life-saving moment for two kittens. Stories like this remind us that rescue is often about being in the right place at the right time and choosing to act.

Stories like Trooper and Ember’s only happen because people choose to step in and because we have the resources to say yes. Your support helps us provide emergency medical care, supplies, and safe foster homes for animals who need us most. If you’re able, please consider donating today to help us save the next Trooper or Ember.