URGENT UPDATE: A cherished pet cat was discovered dumped at a recycling center in Newark, prompting an immediate appeal for information from the charity Beauty’s Legacy. Staff at the Household Recycling Centre on Brunel Drive found the deceased black cat, later identified as Murphy, on November 13. This shocking incident has left his owners devastated and seeking answers.
At approximately 12:30 PM, volunteers from Beauty’s Legacy arrived to scan the cat for a microchip after staff noticed suspicious behavior from a visitor. The microchip revealed that Murphy was a well-loved pet with a blue collar, living in the nearby area of Fernwood. The charity believes Murphy may have died around 8:30 AM on the same day, possibly just hours before being discovered.
Lisa Dean, chief executive and senior animal welfare officer at Beauty’s Legacy, expressed her heartbreak over the situation. “It was clear he had a home, he had a nice collar on and was in very good condition. We just need to know when he died and what happened for the owner’s peace of mind. They’re just devastated and want that closure. It’s shocking, and very very sad,” she stated.
In a bid to uncover the circumstances surrounding Murphy’s death, the charity is urging residents in the Gardiner Avenue, Goldstraw Lane, Pond Lane, and Johnsons Road areas of Fernwood to review any CCTV or doorbell camera footage. They are particularly interested in any sightings of the cat or any suspicious activities leading up to his demise. Those with information are encouraged to contact Beauty’s Legacy at 07866 026343.
This tragic incident not only highlights the need for closure for Murphy’s family but also underscores the importance of knowing what to do if a deceased cat is found. Currently, it is not legally required to report a cat hit by a vehicle, unlike dogs and livestock. However, reporting can provide vital closure for families missing their pets.
“It’s really resonated with people who are missing pets, who worry this same thing has happened to their animals. We just don’t want this to happen again,” Dean added. “The trauma for the owners has been agonizing, and it was also very upsetting for the staff at the recycling center.”
Beauty’s Legacy is dedicated to educating the public on proper procedures for dealing with deceased or injured cats. Vets can scan these animals free of charge to check for microchips, enabling owners to be contacted for any necessary arrangements. Charities and local authorities are also available to assist in this process.
As the investigation continues, the charity aims to prevent such heart-wrenching incidents from occurring in the future. Community support and vigilance can play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety of beloved pets.