The Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region (HSPPR) is urging the community to be prepared for emergencies after a cat was separated from her family during the fast-moving Meridian Fire.
On Thursday afternoon, March 13, the fire broke out due to high winds and extreme fire danger east of the Colorado Springs Airport. Mandatory evacuation orders were quickly issued, and while responding to the crisis, deputies from the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office spotted a cat in danger.
The cat, named Liza, was rescued by law enforcement officers and brought to HSPPR. At the shelter, Liza received some rest, a meal, and plenty of care from the staff as they worked to locate her family. However, like many cats, Liza was not pleased with her unexpected stay.
“Liza was not thrilled about this unexpected detour,” HSPPR shared in a social media post. “We like to call cats like her ‘spicy’—a little feisty, a little sassy, and very much missing her people. She let us know, in no uncertain terms, that she had places to be!”
Fortunately, HSPPR quickly found Liza’s family the following day. When Liza’s owner arrived, the transformation was instant.
“Gone was the little spitfire we had met just a day before,” HSPPR said. “As soon as she saw her person, she melted into her arms, purring, snuggling, and reminding all of us just how deep the bond between pets and their families runs. In that instant, there was no fear, no stress—just love.”
While Liza’s reunion had a happy ending, HSPPR emphasized that it serves as a sobering reminder that natural disasters don’t only affect people. Our pets rely on us for their safety, and when our homes are at risk, so are theirs.
“We are so grateful for our Animal Law Enforcement team and the amazing Community Animal Response Team (CART)—dedicated volunteers trained to help animals during emergencies,” HSPPR stated. “Their swift actions, alongside first responders, ensure that pets like Liza have the chance to return home.”
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