Cat reunited with family after Meridian Fire
(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region (HSPPR) is reminding the community to always be prepared for the worst, after a cat was separated from her family during the quick-moving Meridian Fire.
On Thursday afternoon, March 13, the Meridian Fire sparked during high winds and high fire danger east of the Colorado Springs Airport. Mandatory evacuation orders were issued soon after, and during their response, deputies with the El Paso County Sheriff's Office spotted a kitty in the path of danger.
The cat, named Liza, was scooped up by heroic law enforcement and taken to HSPPR. Once at the shelter, Liza got some much-needed rest, a meal, and plenty of love from the staff while they worked diligently to find her family. However, like many cats, Liza was not particularly fond of her unplanned vacation.
'Liza was not thrilled about this unexpected detour,' HSPPR said in a social media post. 'Our team likes 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!'
Thankfully, HSPPR said it didn't take long to find Liza's family–they were located the next day. When Liza's mom arrived, HSPPR said the spicy kitty was transformed before their eyes.
'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 story had a happy ending, HSPPR said it serves as a scary reminder that natural disasters don't just affect humans. Our pets rely on us for safety and security, and when our homes are threatened, so are theirs.
'That's why we're so grateful for our Animal Law Enforcement team and the incredible Community Animal Response Team (CART)—a group of dedicated volunteers trained to assist animals during emergencies,' HSPPR said. 'Their quick actions, alongside first responders, ensure that pets like Liza have a fighting chance at making it home.'
If disaster strikes near your home, do you have a plan? For situations just like this, HSPPR has a guide on creating an emergency evacuation kit for your pets, along with tips on preparing before disaster hits. You can find their resources by clicking here.
Fortunately, the Meridian Fire did not displace any pets, and HSPPR said it is celebrating Liza's safe return home while praising the brave work of Animal Law Enforcement and shelter staff, for unwavering dedication in a time of intense stress during the fire.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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