Family says teacher who found beloved missing cat claimed $10,000 reward

SULLIVAN’S ISLAND, SC (WCSC) - The Sullivan’s Island family who posted a reward for $10,000 for the return of its pet says a teacher who found the cat has claimed that reward.

On Monday, Lindsey confirmed that Vail was back home thanks to a teacher who found Vail on the steps of Sullivan’s Island Elementary School. She said the teacher, who was not identified, was reluctant at first about taking the reward but later did.

The owner of Vail, a five-pound Doll Face Persian Cat, posted a flyer on Saturday after her beloved cat went missing Friday afternoon. Lindsey, Vail’s owner, who did not want her last name used, said Vail ran off after getting spooked.

“She jumped from my arms and ran off,” Lindsey said. “It’s her first time being out of the house so we are all a little nervous.”

She credited the teacher with keeping Vail safe until she could reach her.

The flyer caused quite a buzz after being posted on social media with the hefty reward.

The family says they canvassed the area, looking for the cat until the sun went down.

“We were out all day yesterday and today," Lindsey said. “Community members have been really helpful. They helped us look and gave us tips on how to find her like putting food out so she will come back."

Lindsey says her family has had Vail for over two years, right after she was born. She said she believed the reward was not too much to see her frisky feline again.

“That’s how bad we want her home,” she said. " She is a very sweet cat who we love dearly."

Lindsey said Vail is a little tired and might be dehydrated so they were taking her to the veterinarian.