Holiday Plans Derailed

Ruby Carter’s holiday in Rotorua was cut short when she learned her cherished cat, Othello, had gone missing from her Wellington home.

Picture source: Ruby Carter

A Stressful Month

Othello’s previous misadventure with sewing thread had already caused Carter stress, requiring him to undergo major surgery. After getting his stitches removed on Monday, Carter left Othello with a house sitter to join her family in Rotorua.

Picture source: Ruby Carter

The Disappearance

That evening, the house sitter alerted Carter that Othello was missing. Initially, Carter thought he might be tucked away somewhere safe. But by morning, it was evident Othello had escaped through a kitchen window.

The Search Intensifies

The house sitter spotted Othello in a neighbour’s basement, but he eluded her. Feeling overwhelmed, Carter exclaimed, “It was just hideous and I didn’t really know what I was going to do.” She then decided to return to Wellington.

Picture source: Ruby Carter

A Desperate Christmas Eve

Carter secured a last-minute flight, landing in Karori at 9:30 PM on Christmas Eve. She searched the neighbourhood, calling for Othello, using only her phone’s torchlight for guidance.

The Night Vigil

With the door ajar and food set out, Carter hoped Othello would return on his own. She barely slept, checking for his return throughout the night.

The Joyful Reunion

The next morning, Carter sat by the door, book in hand, listening intently. The sound of leaves crunching alerted her to Othello’s presence. He scampered away at first sight, but later, Carter heard the telltale crunch of him eating the food she’d left. Stealthily, she captured him, ensuring he wouldn’t escape again.

Picture source: Ruby Carter

Othello’s Nonchalance

Othello showed no signs of distress, spending the afternoon in a relaxed pose next to Carter, completely at ease.

Picture source: Ruby Carter

Moving Forward

When interviewed, Carter pondered whether to take Othello back to Rotorua or arrange for his care elsewhere. Othello, previously a stray from a Rotorua campground, has been with Carter for two years. She expressed her deep affection for him, calling him “the most precious thing in the world to me,” her “baby.”

Engagement and Your Thoughts

Have you ever experienced a similar situation with a pet? How did it feel to be reunited? Share your stories or thoughts. Click on HOTLINE Letters to the Editor to contribute to the conversation.

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