A California family who thought their beloved cat, Thomas, was killed in the wildfires that destroyed their home in October received a pleasant, purring surprise this week.

Dani Stockham can thank a compassionate park ranger, and a microchip for the miraculous reunion.

After a cat's remains were found in the rubble of the Stockham's residence days after the fire, the family assumed it was Thomas and said their goodbyes, KTVU reported.

Seven weeks later, San Francisco Park Ranger Shannon Jay contacted the family with good news. He had been setting traps to capture pets lost in the wildfires. The cat's microchip was scanned, confirming that the Stockhams were the owners. Jay was able to reach the Stockham family via email, KTVU reported.

The Stockhams said that 45 days in the wild has left Thomas a bit thinner and exhausted, but he was meowing and purring when he was reunited with his family.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Foo Fighters closed out Shaky Knees 2024 at Central Park with extended versions of their biggest hits. The indie rock festival has moved to Piedmont Park for this weekend's event. (Ryan Fleisher for the AJC)

Credit: Ryan Fleisher

Featured

The city of Atlanta opened Azalea Fresh Market downtown to help residents find affordable groceries. (Natrice Miller/AJC)