Two weeks after a sickly stray named Joy was rescued off the streets, someone stole the still-ailing animal from the local Humane Society.
Thanks to her resemblance to the Internet-breaking Star Wars character, Joy and her story went viral, with kind donors opening up their wallets to help pay for the kitty’s veterinary bills. Per New York’s ABC affiliate:
A North Carolina woman found Joy with a large neck wound and an upper respiratory tract infection in mid-December. The woman asked Humane Society of Rowan County for help, and one of the non-profit’s veterinarians started treating Joy for her injuries. In the meantime, Joy captured the hearts of internet users for her resemblance to “The Child,” the breakout star from the “Star Wars: The Mandalorian” series.
In six days, Facebook users donated over $1,250 to help Humane Society of Rowan County pay for Joy’s medical bills.
But the story didn’t just attract the attention of the kind-hearted, and a few days ago someone made off with the viral feline after claiming Joy was their long-lost pet, according to the Humane Society of Rowan County.
Making matters worse, Joy wasn’t ready for her forever home yet, and was supposed to remain under veterinary care and supervision while the Humane Society took applications from potential adopters.
It is with heavy hearts that we announce that Joy is no longer in our care. Joy was released without our knowledge or consent to a person claiming ownership.
It is likely that HSRC will still be responsible for Joy’s vet bills.
We wish we could provide more details but are unable to at this time. We pray that Joy, still with unhealed wounds and not fully recovered, will be given proper medical care and make a full recovery.
Return the cat, nerd! And while you’re at it, consider switching your allegiance to a decidedly more feline-friendly science fiction franchise. You’ll live long and prosper! 🙂
Pain In The Bud 
Oh no, this reminds me of that stupid commercial where the kid wants to adopt the Chewbacca dog, but it’s adopted when he gets there so he wants the cat instead. Poor Joy! I hope they get caught for stealing her. They will probably try to make her an internet sensation to make money then get someone will recognize her.
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That’s what I was thinking, that the thief wanted the cat to make some quick Youtube cash. If she turns up online, hopefully the cops take it seriously enough to get her back.
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But, hang on a minute, who was the brain dead, incompetent twat who let this happen ? They claimed it was their long lost pet ? long lost ? er, how old is it again ? fire the twat, get the CCTV images and track the prick down. and then spay him/her. with a rusty knife.
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