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

NEW CANAAN, CT — A cat found abandoned in a pet carrier at an Interstate 95 rest stop last week is receiving medical assistance, according to New Canaan police.

In a news release, Police Lt. Jason Ferraro said New Canaan Animal Control assisted State Police when the animal, later named "Highway," was discovered on Jan. 24.

According to Animal Control Officer Allyson Halm, the rest stop was located in Darien, however their animal control officer was not available at the time and she was called to provide assistance.

Halm also noted she was told by a state dispatcher the carrier had been left at the rest stop for about 48 hours before officers arrived.

Due to the cold weather, Highway was taken directly to a local veterinarian, who determined the cat had suffered two broken legs and trauma to a right eye, Ferraro said.

Animal control also reached out to the Norwalk-based Pet Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) for medical assistance, who Ferraro said did not hesitate to help.

"Despite the suspected abuse, 'Highway' remains a sweet and trusting animal," Ferraro said in a news release.

Halm was unable to provide further information regarding how the carrier was discovered due to the investigation being under the state's jurisdiction, however she noted Highway was still recovering as of Tuesday.

"Highway is doing very well," Halm said in an email to Patch. "I believe his first surgery is scheduled for [Wednesday]."

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.