In a heartwarming tale of community effort, Harding the cat, who suffered severe burns and injuries after getting trapped inside a car muffler, has been saved thanks to the dedication and teamwork of numerous individuals and organizations in St. Paul.
The rescue effort involved students and staff from Harding Senior High School, police officers, firefighters, St. Paul Animal Control, Pet Haven (a foster-based rescue organization), Parkview Cat Clinic staff, a loving foster family, and various supporters. “Everyone just came together for this little dude,” said Kerry D’Amato, executive director of Pet Haven, emphasizing the cat’s remarkable will to survive despite the severe burns.
The incident began on a chilly day on April 3 at Harding Senior High School. Coach Rich Mayen initially ignored an intercom announcement about a car problem, thinking it wasn’t his car. However, he soon discovered police officers by his Hyundai, where a cat was stuck in the muffler. Students had noticed the cat’s tail and leg protruding from the bumper.
Despite various attempts to free the cat with Mayen’s tools, it was ultimately the firefighters from Ladder Company #24 who succeeded in rescuing him. “We were able to slide the cat out backwards,” recalled Mike Wicke, the driver/fire equipment operator. The cat, later named Harding, was handed over to animal control, where his severe injuries became apparent.
Pet Haven, known for taking on challenging medical cases, stepped in, partnering with Dr. Grant Gugisberg of Parkview Cat Clinic. Harding’s recovery involved extensive care, including the use of innovative treatments like Phovia Light therapy and a special recovery suit. Despite losing his left rear leg, Harding’s resilience and calm demeanor throughout the treatment impressed everyone involved.
Harding’s foster care was provided by Donna Bachtold, a veterinary technician, and her daughter Issy Rardin, who has become Harding’s favorite. There’s a possibility that Harding has found his forever home with Rardin.
Principal Tony Chlebecek of Harding Senior High School expressed gratitude for the happy ending and the school’s involvement in the rescue. Pet Haven, which recently paused new intakes due to financial constraints, has reopened thanks to successful donation efforts. Donations in Harding’s name can be made to the Phoenix Fund at Pet Haven’s website or via mail.
Harding’s story highlights the power of community and the incredible impact of collective compassion and effort in saving a life.
