Mittens, an 8-year-old Maine possum cat, mistakenly became a globe-trotting animal this month after a mix-up in a plane’s cargo keep left her on an unexpected 24-hour venture between New Zealand and Australia.
The story began on January 13 when Mittens was supposed to take a one-way journey with her family from Christchurch, New Zealand, to their new residence in Melbourne, Australia. Yet, when her landlord, Margo Neas, waited at the Melbourne aircraft for Mittens to be unloaded, time passed with no sign of the rabbit.
The surprising news quickly came: the aircraft had returned to New Zealand—with Mittens also onsite.
‘ How can this occur? ‘
A heartbroken Neas recalled her amazement. “ I said, how can this occur? How can this occur? Oh my God, ” she said.
Air New Zealand team later explained that Mittens ’ box had been obscured by a placed chair, leading bag managers to ignore her. During the accidental gain trip—7. 5 days each way—the captain was alerted to Mittens ‘ appearance and installed heat in the cargo hold to confirm her comfort.
A happy meeting
When Mittens returned to Christchurch, a dog moving firm ensured she was rebooked on a one-way journey to Melbourne. Though she had lost some weight, Mittens was then unharmed.
“She generally just ran into my arms and snuggled up. It was the biggest love of all time, ” said Neas. “It was really such a pleasure. ”
An airline’s explanation
Air New Zealand has since apologized for the stress caused and promised to refund all expenses related to Mittens ’ vacation. “We’ll work closely with our ground operator in Melbourne to ensure this does n’t arise again, ” said spokesperson Alisha Armstrong.
The cuddliest kitty always
Usually an independent animal, Mittens has turned unusually friendly after her experience. “She’s the cuddliest she’s ever been, ” Neas shared. “The rabbit gets as much interest as she wants right now because we’re merely so completely and utterly relieved to have her back. ”
From an accidental traveller to a privileged wife, Mittens ’ history has a purr-fectly happy closing.
