The bond between humans and their companion animals is an incredible thing. There is nothing like the unconditional love that comes from our furry, four-legged best friends. While we would go to the ends of the earth to find our pets if they ever went missing, would you expect your pet to come looking for you?

Well, for one woman, Nancy Cowan, her cat Cleo did! Cowan found Cleo living as a stray in Richmond, Virginia around eight years ago. Cowan and Cleo lived in the Wescott care facility during this time, but Cowan recently moved to Bramley House care home. We’ve heard stories of pets who have trekked incredible distances to find their guardians, but Cleo’s story is unique in that she had no knowledge of where Bramley House was.

When she switched facilities, Cowan left Cleo in the care of her neighbors. However, two weeks after Cowan made the move into Bramley, Cleo was spotted sitting on a bench outside the facility. Without knowing the connection to Cowan, the staff at Bramley took a liking to Cleo, and one of the caretakers was carrying her around one day when Cowan took notice.

Cleo had lost part of her tail in a traffic accident, and upon inspection it was discovered that this mystery cat also bore this injury. Cowan’s sister came by and was able to confirm that this particular kitty was in fact Cleo, and that she had found a way to be with her guardian against all odds! Bramley has arranged to allow Cleo to live with Cowan and the two have been happily reunited.

It’s so amazing to hear a story like this one that shows how strong the relationship between an animal and their guardian. Some might think that cats are highly independent, and even aloof animals – but this story certainly shows just what loving creatures these animals can be!