Losing a pet due to any circumstance is heartbreaking. We’d do anything to keep our pets safe. And we’d stop at nothing searching for them when they go missing until reunited once more. This Scottish woman did just that, and kept it up for 17 years!

Kim Collier moved from her home in England to Midlothian, Scotland 17 years ago. And it was here that her cat Tilly went missing. Immediately like any pet owner would do, Collier started to put up missing signs all over town for Tilly in case anyone had seen her. Kim never stopped looking for her beloved cat. Even after two more house moves and having two more pets. But with each move, she would update Tilly’s microchip information. And after 17 years, Kim received a phone call from the SSPCA.

For those who do not know about the microchipping process, microchips are inserted into your pet with vital information remotely updated containing your name, phone number, and address. This way, when an animal is taken to a vet, they can see if the animal belongs to someone.

The person on the other end of the line asked Kim if she owned a cat named Tilly. Of course, she said yes! The 39-year-old woman responded in total disbelief since there was no sign of Tilly for the last 17 years.

‘I was thinking “I did but ages ago”. The officer said she had her in the back of the van and I was like “what?”,’ Kim told Daily Record. “It was a very odd feeling…I didn’t really know if I was coming or going. My world was turned upside down…but in a good way.”

Reunited and it feels so good!

Tilly was found in the exact same area that she had disappeared in years earlier. Talk about a Houdini for hiding in plain sight! A random hero saw Tilly was in distress and in need of care, so they immediately contacted the SSPCA. Kim’s search for her long-lost friend had ended.

Tilly turns 20 years old this year and is currently being taken care of at the Pentland Veterinary Clinic where Collier works. After Tilly regains her strength, Kim plans on rehoming her since she’s moved away and doesn’t want to stress Tilly traveling.

“I’m not going to give up on her,” Kim said. All the staff here are so nice and have taken her under their wing.”

Although Kim never actually found Tilly herself, through diligence and constant microchip updating, Tilly was finally found. Kim also says that if anyone is missing a pet they too should also keep their microchip information updated, because you never know when your pet will be found!