Railroad Worker Nabs PETA Award for Saving Kitten Trapped in Train

Chris Small Defied Boss’s Orders in Order to Rescue Newborn Kitten

For Immediate Release:
November 7, 2019

Contact:
Megan Wiltsie 202-483-7382

A Compassionate Action Award is on its way from PETA to Chris Small, a train inspector for the Norfolk Southern Railway who rescued a kitten stuck in a train—against his boss’s orders.

On October 30, Small was working his usual evening shift when he noticed a tiny kitten trapped in a tank car crevice—and even though his boss instructed him to leave her there, Small used a pair of tongs to pull her to safety (along with three other kittens from the litter, who had died) and adopted her. He was fired for defying his boss, but following a public outcry over his dismissal, the company hired him back. Meanwhile, the kitten—now named Promise—is happy and healthy and is bonding with Small’s rescued dog, Daisy.

“Chris Small saved this vulnerable kitten from a terrifying and likely deadly ordeal,” says PETA Vice President Colleen O’Brien. “PETA hopes his act of compassion will inspire people everywhere to come to the aid of any animals in need.”

PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way” and which opposes speciesism, a human-supremacist worldview—reminds all cat guardians that the safest place for their animal companions is indoors. When cats go outside, they’re exposed to dangers, including severe weather, diseases, traffic, and cruel people. All animal companions, including cats, should be allowed outdoors only when escorted on a leash and a safe, secure harness.

PETA is sending Small a framed certificate, a box of delicious vegan cookies, and treats for Promise to enjoy.

For more information about PETA’s work for animals, please visit PETA.org.