Memphis Woman Races to Rescue Kittens Found Trapped in Pontoon Boat
Heartwarming Discovery on a Jog
In a captivating turn of events in Memphis, Tennessee, a woman out for a jog on Monday morning stumbled upon a furry dilemma that tugged at her heartstrings. While crossing the AW Willis Bridge, Katie Hays heard the unmistakable cries of kittens echoing from a nearby pontoon boat parked at the Bass Pro Shops lot. Initially perplexed by the sounds, she quickly turned her run into a mission of mercy.
A Race Against Time
Upon investigating, Hays discovered at least four tiny kittens trapped in a narrow, metal area close to the motor of the pontoon boat. โI ran down here and started walking by boats and just heard them meowing,โ Hays recounted. โI could immediately tell where they were and that they were kittens.โ
Concern for the Furry Family
She also noticed the mama cat hanging around the area, even though she wasn’t able to reach the kittens herself. The situation appeared to be complicated as even the employees at Bass Pro Shops were uncertain how to rescue the helpless animals. โThey canโt get that metal piece off the boat. So, there is no way to get my arms back as far as they are,โ Hays expressed, reflecting her frustration.
A New Development
The next day, as hope glimmered, the mama cat was found inside the boat with the kittens. However, Hays worried about their safety as they were still trapped in what she described as a metal boxโa precarious situation given the cooling temperatures. โI tried to coax the cat and kittens out of the boat,” she explained, “and I even took to social media looking for rescue tips.โ
The Heart of an Animal Lover
Hays’s dedication to animals shines through in her actions. โIโve got two dogs and a cat of my own at home. So, Iโve been an animal lover my whole life,โ she said. โI canโt not try if I know they are there.โ She also reached out to the local animal control, but unfortunately, the officers had not yet arrived to assist with the unfolding situation.
Creating a Safe Space
In a heartfelt attempt to help, Hays left a warm box filled with food and water beneath the boat, hoping that the mama cat would move her little ones there for the night. โAt least this way, theyโll have something to eat and a cozy spot to stay warm,โ she hoped as she monitored the location.
The Community Responds
Community members have rallied around Hays’s efforts, some joining her in her mission to rescue the kittens safely. Social media has played a crucial role in spreading the word, with people sharing their own pet rescue stories and recommendations on how to coax out the trapped kittens. Hays’s determination and the supportive response from fellow animal lovers have connected people in a tremendous act of solidarity.
Looking Ahead
As the evening approached, Hays remained hopeful that the mama cat would accept her offering and relocate her babies. With the temperature dropping, the urgency of the rescue only grew. The situation has captured the hearts of many, drawing attention to the importance of caring for animals in need.
The Power of Kindness
Whether they successfully rescue the kittens or not, the situation has highlighted a powerful message about compassion and the lengths one will go for a furry friend. It serves as a gentle reminder to keep an eye out for those in need, whether they walk on two legs or four.
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
