Microchip reunites Buddy with mum

Rachal Marks is not sure how many lives her furry companion, Buddy, a four-year-old tabby, has used up.

The pair were reunited at the Hervey Bay Adoption Centre this week after Buddy went missing 15 months ago as Rachal; her three kids and three cats were heading to Brisbane.

“We were on the massive move from Townsville to Brisbane,” Rachal said.

“We stopped in at my sister’s place for a visit and Buddy escaped.”

During the night Rachal’s sister’s dog opened the back door and Buddy went exploring.

“We went to the pound and hired a cat trap and did everything we could to catch him, but he was gone.”

Devastated, the family left for Brisbane.

Buddy was finally found by a Urangan resident who called Council to collect him.

At the pound, Fraser Coast Regional Council Animal Management staff gave Buddy a once over and checked to see if he was microchipped.

“I hoped that if he was found someone would be able to contact us through the microchip,” Rachal said.

Once the staff contacted Rachal, she was keen to pick up Buddy as quickly as possible.

“I had to get permission from the police to travel to Hervey Bay to collect him,” she said.

While Buddy was very standoffish with the Adoption Centre staff, once he heard Rachal’s voice he was ready for a cuddle.

“He recognised me straight away,” she said.

“He pretty well slept all the way back to Brisbane and has been a bit clingy, but he’s settled into the new house really well.

“I think it is because all of the furniture and smells are familiar.

“The other two cats are now adjusting to having him home and having to share my bed with him.

“He’s ignoring the hissing and just getting on with life.”

Buddy’s return highlights the benefits of microchipping, Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said.

“It is a heart-warming story and shows the value of micropchipping.

“Our aim is to reunite animals with their families as quickly as possible and we can do that if your microchip details and address details are up to date with Council.”