NASHVILLE, Tenn. — A kitten named Xena Princess Warrior is recovering after undergoing emergency surgery for a dart lodged through her torso. The animal rescue group Proverbs 12:10 Animal Rescue reported that the kitten, who was given a 50% chance of survival, is doing well despite her injuries. She will be in a body cast for six weeks and requires ongoing veterinary care, with medical bills surpassing $10,000.
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The case emerged after the discovery of a dead cat and an injured kitten near the Honeysuckle Exxon in Erin. A team member from the rescue found the kitten and took her to Nashville Veterinary Specialists for a CT scan and surgery. Following the incident, the rescue offered a $1,000 reward for information, which led to the arrest of an adult and two juveniles.
Erin police charged Darlene Hooper with three felony counts of aggravated cruelty to animals and two counts of contributing to the delinquency of a minor. Her bond was set at $8,000. Two juveniles have also been charged in juvenile court with three counts of aggravated cruelty to animals.
The rescue organization is looking to trap and relocate additional cats from the same area and is seeking fosters to assist. Meanwhile, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) is launching a public service announcement featuring actor Jaeden Martell, aiming to highlight the dangers that outdoor cats face. PETA Senior Vice President Daphna Nachminovitch stressed the need for cat owners to keep their pets indoors to protect them from potential harm.