When a Department of Transportation employee on the Berlin Turnpike popped their hood, they weren’t expecting to find a tiny kitten nestled inside the car engine. Just eight weeks old, the soot-covered baby was frightened, alone—and in a tight spot.

With no one else available to get this kitten out, the Connecticut Humane Society was called in. Two CHS team members, Kitty and Jennifer Lynn, rushed to the DOT lot in Newington. With teamwork, a jack, and a lot of patience, they safely removed the kitten from inside the engine.

Back at the Newington pet resource center, the little traveler was named Dottie, in honor of the crew who saved her. A medical exam showed she was in good health, and once she was spayed and given some TLC, Dottie was ready for the next leg of her journey.

It didn’t take long. Just one day after becoming available for adoption, Dottie zoomed into a new home with someone who couldn’t resist her outgoing personality and love for people.

From a car engine to the comforts of a loving home, Dottie’s detour through CHS was short—but lifechanging. Thanks to a community that stays alert for pets in crisis, she now has a lifetime of safe adventures ahead.