Cat Abandoned In Darien Showed Signs Of Abuse, Neglect: State PD

DARIEN, CT — A cat abandoned at an Interstate 95 rest stop in Darien last week showed signs of abuse and neglect when examined by a veterinarian, according to State Police.

In a news release Wednesday, State Police said the cat was found Jan. 24 around 11:30 a.m. after police received a report of a cat left inside an unattended vehicle parked at an I-95 northbound rest area in Darien.

New Canaan Animal Control Officer Allyson Halm was called to the rest stop as a result of a mutual aid request and took custody of the cat, who was later named "Highway."

Due to the cold overnight temperatures, Halm brought Highway to a local veterinarian for examination, during which the cat exhibited signs of animal abuse and neglect, according to State Police. Halm then reported the incident to the State Animal Control Unit.

According to New Canaan police, the vet determined Highway had suffered two broken legs and trauma to a right eye.

See also: Abandoned Cat Found In Carrier At I-95 Rest Stop: New Canaan PD

"Based upon this information, the State Police have initiated an investigation into circumstances surrounding the suspected abuse and neglect," State Police said in a news release.

On Tuesday, Halm told Patch a state dispatcher informed her the carrier had been left at the rest stop for about 48 hours before officers arrived.

New Canaan Animal Control also reached out to the Norwalk-based Pet Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) for medical assistance, who police noted did not hesitate to help.

"Despite the suspected abuse, 'Highway' remains a sweet and trusting animal," New Canaan Police Lt. Jason Ferraro said in a separate news release Tuesday.

Anyone interested in finding out more about how to help with Highway's pending surgeries and rehabilitation is asked to contact PAWS, located at 504 Main Street, at 203-750-9572.