Kitten hitches 15-mile ride in Oregon rescue vehicle

On September 3, a kitten was discovered in the wheel well of a Search and Rescue vehicle belonging to the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office in Oregon. The vehicle was initially flagged for inspection due to a potential rodent infestation, which had caught the attention of a K9 during a training exercise. However, before the inspection could take place, the vehicle was dispatched to a call in the Vista area of the Columbia River Gorge, traveling over 15 miles in total. As the Search and Rescue volunteers prepared for their mission, they heard a faint cry coming from beneath the truck. While most of the team proceeded to the field, two volunteers stayed behind to investigate. They disassembled part of the wheel well and discovered a small black kitten hidden within the mechanical spaces of the vehicle. The volunteers had to use a flashlight to locate the frightened animal, which was later named Vista. After being rescued, Vista received medical attention for fleas and a cold, ensuring she was healthy and ready for a new home. The sheriff's deputy who took her in provided a loving environment for the kitten, giving her a second chance at life after her unexpected journey. This incident highlights the unexpected ways animals can find themselves in precarious situations and the compassion of those who work in emergency services. The story of Vista serves as a reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the role of community members in rescuing and caring for vulnerable creatures.