Meet Herbie, the extraordinary tabby who proved to be a true hero when it mattered most!
Janine DeMartini, a resident of New York, decided to foster Herbie from Staten Island Hope Animal Rescue. Little did she know that this seemingly ordinary cat would end up saving her daughter’s life.
On a typical evening after a long day of work and taking care of her children, Janine was about to drift off to sleep when Herbie suddenly began meowing loudly and heading towards the door. Now, Herbie wasn’t known for making a fuss, so Janine sensed that something was wrong.
Following Herbie’s lead, Janine opened the door, and the determined cat made a beeline for her daughter Isabella’s room.
“Herbie kept pawing at the door, and when I opened it, he ran inside and jumped into her crib. Isabella had turned over while sleeping and had pulled a toy blanket over her face,” Janine recounted.
It was a terrifying realization – her two-year-old daughter was being smothered by the blanket. Thanks to Herbie’s quick actions, Isabella’s life was saved.
Despite initially being just a foster cat, Herbie had proven his loyalty and earned himself a permanent spot in the DeMartini family.
“He was always purring and rubbing on me — very affectionate. I always said, ‘You’re just a little love bug’… but I never intended on keeping him,” Janine admitted.
Now, Herbie is a cherished member of the DeMartini household, where he continues to bring joy and love to everyone around him.
Janine, who works as a social worker and has studied the benefits of animal-assisted therapy, understands firsthand the incredible bond between humans and their furry companions. Herbie’s brave act is a testament to the special connection we share with our pets, who often go above and beyond to protect and care for us.
