Thai Navy honored for rescuing cats from sinking ship

Photo Credit: Facebook @nookool.b

BANGKOK — A “Hero to Animals Award” is on the way from PETA to the Thai Navy after sailors rescued four cats from a burning, sinking ship in the Andaman Sea.

Photos from the rescue show a cat clinging to a sailor’s back as his crewmates pull them to safety. Video footage shows the cats, warm and dry, enjoying a meal and a cuddle at their rescuers’ command post on the island of Koh Lipe.

“These sailors’ courageous and compassionate actions have made a splash with kind people around the world,” PETA senior vice president Jason Baker said.

“PETA hopes their example will inspire everyone to keep an eye out for animals in danger and do whatever it takes to get them to safety.”

On behalf of the naval officers involved in the rescue, the Thai Navy will receive a framed certificate and a letter of appreciation from PETA, which has also offered to cover the costs of spaying or neutering the cats.