A harrowing incident unfolded in Westford, Massachusetts, as a 20-year-old blind cat named Tiki found himself trapped on thin ice before plummeting into a pond.
Tiki, a black-and-white feline well-loved by his owners, often enjoyed exploring the outdoors. However, this time his adventure took a perilous turn. Observers were alerted when Tiki was spotted precariously perched on ice that eventually gave way, sending him into the frigid waters of Nabnasset Pond.
In an astonishing display of quick thinking and bravery, a passerby named Dawn Felicani, alongside two construction workers, orchestrated a rescue mission. Felicani recounted her emotional reaction to the situation, “The crackling happened, and I was like, hysterical, and all of a sudden, it fell in! It’s little head was sticking out! I’m in tears, and I’m freaking out.”
The immediate response involved Felicani contacting local emergency services, while one construction worker swiftly jumped into action. He embarked on a rowboat, aided by another worker who helped navigate the icy waters with tools at hand. Their resourceful maneuvering through the hazardous conditions enabled them to reach Tiki and pull him to safety.
Once on shore, Tiki was quickly dried and swathed in blankets to combat the effects of hypothermia. Kirsten Hirschler, the animal control officer present, noted Tiki’s alarming state of shock and dangerously low body temperature, describing it as so low that “it didn’t even register on the thermometer.” Despite the ordeal, Tiki received prompt veterinary care that was crucial to his recovery.
Reflecting on Tiki’s misadventure, it is believed that a predator may have chased him onto the ice, a place he usually avoids. John Arden, Tiki’s owner, was relieved to see his pet recovering well and resuming his usual activities at home, though somewhat displeased at being kept indoors presently.
The swift and courageous actions of Dawn Felicani and the construction workers averted what could have been a tragic outcome for Tiki. This incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of nature and the enduring impacts of community vigilance and resourcefulness.
Source: Local10
