Donald and Aggie Cooper, founders of Unleash the Paws, were driving from Texas to Pennsylvania with a van full of foster dogs when something caught Donald’s eye.
On the side of the busy highway lay what looked like a ball of yellow fur. At first, he thought it might be a kitten — but it didn’t seem to be moving.
The couple almost kept driving, assuming the animal hadn’t survived. But something in their hearts told them to turn around.
“I had to get out to check on the kitten because it was too dangerous for him,” Aggie said. “Cars were flying past so close and so fast, it was shaking the whole van.”
When she reached the little body, Aggie saw the heartbreaking sight of the kitten’s mother lying lifeless nearby. Bracing herself, she gently touched the baby — and that’s when she saw it. His tiny paw twitched. He was still alive.
Aggie scooped him up without hesitation.
The kitten was so young his eyes had barely opened. They gave him a name inspired by where he was found: Mile Marker 14, Interstate 70 East, Ohio — though everyone just calls him Miles. (One neighbor’s daughter prefers “Cheeto Puff.”)
Now traveling with six dogs and one fragile kitten, the Coopers had to improvise. They bottle-fed Miles in the van, kept him warm against Aggie’s chest at night, and made sure he was never alone.
To their surprise, the foster dogs — none of whom had lived with cats before — quickly welcomed him.
“They realized he was one of the pack,” Aggie said. “Now the kitten thinks he’s a dog. He plays with our fosters, and they shower him with love.”
You can watch his full rescue journey here:
Miles not only survived — he thrived. At 7 weeks old, he’s playful, energetic, and fearless. Most importantly, he’s ready to find a forever family of his own.
His story is a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion on the road. “Now I realize how important it is to check every animal that looks ‘dead,’” Aggie said. “If we hadn’t stopped, Miles wouldn’t be here.”
From tragedy on the highway to cuddles and playtime with his foster siblings, Miles’ journey has been nothing short of a miracle. All he needs now is a family who will love him just as much as he’s already loved.
If you're interested in adopting Miles, submit an application through Unleash the Paws. To learn more about Unleash the Paws, check out their TikTok and YouTube profiles. You can support them by donating something from their Amazon wishlist.
