A family in Montecito is thrilled that their beloved cat, Diamond, has finally returned home to them after missing for 475 days.
The Strogoffs’ property was destroyed in the Montecito Mudslide. It was the last day they saw Diamond. The family was forced to leave their cats behind as they evacuated just before the devastating incident demolished their neighborhood.
“I had no idea what happened was going to happen, and assumed they would be fine. When we got back we couldn’t find them,” said Noelle Strogoff. One year later, the family was able to move back home, but their cats were still nowhere to be found.
By chance, when Noelle was talking to a construction worker who was assisting with renovations, she mentioned her cat Diamond. The worker said, “Oh my gosh, I think I’ve been feeding her.” 20 minutes later, Noelle followed him back to his house and there she was, perfectly healthy.
Families around the neighborhood had been feeding Diamond for over a year and a half. Strogoff’s three children were beyond excited to have their kitty back. “Mommy, you made me so happy,” said one of the children. “I love Diamond.”