In a rare animal rescue operation, authorities in Tacoma, Washington, along with animal rescue teams, recently embarked on a mission to help approximately 60 adult cats and kittens found on an abandoned sailboat anchored near Owen Beach. Some of the cats were in poor nutritional condition and frightened due to prolonged exposure to harsh environments. Several of them have been taken to the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County for care and treatment.
The unusual rescue operation began on August 6 when the Tacoma Police Department received a report about an unattended sailboat measuring about 40 feet with over 30 adult cats and kittens on board near Owen Beach. The police, maritime services, and animal control departments coordinated the rescue efforts upon receiving the report.
Since the sailboat was private property, authorities did not board immediately upon discovering the cats but instead worked on obtaining the necessary legal authorization. On August 7, maritime services began working with animal control personnel to rescue the cats from the sailboat. The rescue process was challenging as many cats were frightened and hiding within the vessel.
As the rescue operation progressed, authorities discovered a higher number of cats on the boat than initially estimated. Some cats were taken to the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County for examination and care, while others still needed to be rescued from various hidden spots on the boat. As of August 13, the total number of cats involved in the rescue operation reached about 60.
Police indicated that the sailboat had a registered owner, but investigators have not disclosed the owner’s identity or how the cats gathered on board. The authorities are investigating the incident, and no arrests or criminal charges have been made thus far.
Local cat rescue volunteer Camille Sutherland told the media outlet KING 5 TV that she boarded the sailboat on her own and rescued two additional cats, bringing them to the humane society. She expressed concern about the perceived slow pace of the official rescue efforts.
However, authorities cautioned the public against unauthorized boarding of the sailboat. Police emphasized that unauthorized boarding could disrupt ongoing investigations and jeopardize the safety of rescue personnel and animals. They urged individuals to report any cats found on the boat to the animal control department rather than attempting their own rescue.
Tacoma police also reminded the public not to board the sailboat unless they are the lawful owners. Understanding that many animal lovers in the community wish to help, the authorities stressed the need to maintain the integrity of the investigation while ensuring the animals receive appropriate assistance.
The Tacoma City Animal Control department is responsible for handling animal-related complaints and emergencies within the city. According to Tacoma city regulations, animal control officers are also tasked with investigating cases of suspected animal abuse and neglect.
In the United States, abandoning a sailboat, whether left adrift on water, docked at the shore, pier, or public land, violates local maritime and environmental protection laws. It may lead to water pollution, ecological damage, and pose serious safety risks to navigation. Moreover, in all 50 states in the US, willfully abandoning pets (including cats, dogs, etc.) is classified as animal cruelty or neglect, constituting a criminal offense.
(Aggregated from local media and Tacoma Police Department sources)