Tejal Somvanshi
Virgil Wiebe missed his connecting flight at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, stepped outside for a cigar, and encountered a stray orange kitten during the delay. The rescue later drew national attention.
Wiebe was stranded at O’Hare when he encountered a small orange kitten. Coverage of the episode describes how a last-minute carrier was arranged after he contacted his family.
A last-minute animal rescue at an airport involves airline and TSA requirements. Travelers should contact the airline directly because carrier, age, space and documentation rules can vary by route and change over time.
His family arranged delivery of pet supplies, and he was able to travel with the kitten after working with the airline.
The kitten was named Macanudo O’Hare, often called Harry, after the unusual airport rescue.
Reports say the search for a suitable carrier was a key logistical challenge, underscoring why travelers should check airline pet policies before arriving at the airport.
Can you take a cat through TSA without vet papers?
TSA screening and airline pet requirements are different. TSA provides current screening guidance, while airlines set their own travel, carrier and health requirements; check both before travel.
Harry is settled in St. Paul, apparently unbothered by either his airport origins or his very long name.
Related reading: a recent cat-rescue case and more airline travel coverage.
