Simba

For six long weeks, a tiny but lightning-fast pup named Simba was on the run in Middletown, NY. The community had been trying desperately to catch him, but despite their best efforts, this little survivor always managed to slip away. With dense woods, trails, and predators nearby, every day out there was a dangerous one for Simba.

Earlier this evening, after hours of waiting and watching and just as the sun was setting, I spotted Simba emerging from the woods and dart across properties. My instincts told me he’d return through a certain driveway, so I quickly moved the trap. Within minutes, my camera lit up and there was Simba. Hungry but cautious, he circled and circled until finally, his hunger outweighed his fear. In that moment, his six-week adventure came to an end, and he was finally safe.

Simba’s family was located early on, but due to personal circumstances, they made the selfless choice to surrender him so he could find the forever home he truly deserves. Tonight, Simba is safe and cared for at the Middletown NY Humane Society where his journey toward a brighter future begins.

I want to extend my deepest thanks to Officer Jason Berman of Middletown K-9 Association whose call set this rescue in motion, and to the entire Restorative Lane community, you welcomed me with open arms, gave me access to your properties, and even delivered pizza to my car while I worked. If there was ever a shining example of a community coming together for an animal in need, this was it.