The remarkable journey of Bagel is a tale that tugs at the heartstrings while highlighting the resilience of animals and the power of human compassion.
For the first four years of his life, Bagel, known only as number 698, was one of hundreds of cats and dogs confined to a testing laboratory in Oklahoma.
His world was limited to the cold bars of a cage, his days filled with the fear and pain of endless chemical toxicity tests.
The concept of love, comfort, or even the simple pleasure of sunlight on fur was entirely foreign to this unfortunate soul.
Bagel’s fate took a dramatic turn thanks to the tireless efforts of the Beagle Freedom Project.
This dedicated organization succeeded in shutting down the laboratory, transforming it into a sanctuary for the very animals it once tormented.
Over 200 cats and dogs, including Bagel, were liberated from their life of testing.
However, their journey was far from over – these animals, having known only confinement and cruelty, now needed loving homes to truly begin their lives anew.
As fate would have it, Bagel’s future mom, Erin, was in the midst of her own emotional journey.
Having recently lost both her cat and dog, she found herself searching for a new companion to fill the void in her heart.
It was during this search that she learned about the rescued animals from the Oklahoma lab.
Moved by their plight and driven by a desire to make a difference, Erin made the decision to fly to Oklahoma and meet these survivors in person.
The moment she laid eyes on Bagel, an inexplicable connection formed.
Perhaps it was the lingering sadness in his eyes, or the tentative way he approached her, but she knew instantly that this was the cat meant to come home with her.
In that moment, 698 ceased to exist, and Bagel the Baker – a name as warm and comforting as the life he was about to begin – was born.
The transition from lab animal to beloved pet was not without its challenges. Bagel’s first major hurdle was the flight home.
Having never left his cage except for testing, the experience of air travel was understandably stressful for him.
His new mom observed his rapid breathing with concern, her heart aching for the fear he must be feeling.
But as soon as they arrived at his new home, a remarkable transformation began.
On his very first night in his new surroundings, Bagel slept peacefully in a cozy bed – a simple pleasure that had been denied him for so long.
While initially cautious, he gradually began to relax and explore his new environment.
Like many of the rescued lab animals who had been socialized as kittens, Bagel possessed an incredible capacity for affection.
Once he felt safe and loved, he returned that affection tenfold, as if making up for lost time.
To Bagel, his new house was nothing short of a wonderland.
Each day brought new discoveries: the patter of raindrops on windows, the enticing jingle of cat toys, the fascinating sight of birds outside.
These everyday occurrences, taken for granted by most cats, were sources of endless fascination for Bagel.
He approached each new experience with wide-eyed wonder, savoring the joy of finally being able to be a cat.
As the days turned into weeks, and weeks into months, Bagel’s personality blossomed.
He learned to play, to seek out sunny spots for naps, and to trust that the love and comfort he now enjoyed were permanent fixtures in his life.
The only shadow that remained from his past was his aversion to vet visits, which likely triggered memories of his time in the lab.
Fortunately, these visits were infrequent, allowing Bagel to fully embrace his new, peaceful existence.
The physical reminder of Bagel’s past – the ear tattoo he received in the lab – serves not as a mark of shame, but proof of his incredible journey.
It’s a symbol of survival, of the transformative power of love and second chances.
As Bagel basks in the warmth of his new life, his thoughts often turn to his friends left behind in the lab.
He carries a silent hope that they too will find loving homes and experience the joy and happiness that have become his new normal.
Bagel’s story is more than just a tale of one cat’s rescue; it’s a powerful reminder of the impact that compassion and dedication can have on the lives of animals who have known only suffering.
It underscores the importance of organizations like the Beagle Freedom Project and the individuals who open their hearts and homes to these survivors.
Through Bagel’s eyes, we see the world anew – a place of wonder, love, and endless possibilities, even for those who have endured the darkest of beginnings.
Check out the video below:
A big thank you to Erin for sharing Bagel’s story with us.
You can see more of this delightful kitty on Instagram
Related story: Sad And Scrawny Rescue Cat Transforms Into Persian Prince With The Cutest Tufty Ears
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