We missed this reunion last month of a cat lost in the May 22, 2011 tornado that devastated Joplin, MO and displaced thousands of pets, but were thrilled to learn of it today.
The Joplin Humane Society Animal Adoption and Resource Center reported on September 6 that Marissa was back with her family, saying “Marissa, a cat who went missing in the tornado, was just reunited with her owner Kayla in the lobby after 15 1/2 months apart. She was a gift from Kayla’s grandfather shortly before he passed and they are so thrilled to have her back home where she belongs.”
Family member Teresa Chrisenbery Thaman said that Marissa was found about a mile from her old home. Many Joplin tornado cats, like cats from similarly disruptive situations, stay even closer to their former homes. Marissa had an upper respiratory infection when found, but responded well to treatment after a trip to the vet. She settled in well in the family’s new home and began to put weight back on as soon as she came home. Teresa said on the Joplin Humane Society’s Facebook page, “What a miracle to find her after over a year! We are so happy to have Marissa home!”
While the Joplin tornado swept through the city with its destructive force nearly a year and a half ago, animals are still lost and displaced, and, in cases like Marissa’s, continue to go home to their families. The Joplin Humane Society and many residents and animal lovers continue in their efforts for those pets displaced in May of 2011.
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