Missing Virginia Store Cat Returns After Unexpected Journey

A beloved store cat named Francine has been reunited with her home at a Lowe’s store in Richmond, Virginia, after embarking on an unexpected journey that took her to a different state. Francine went missing for several weeks before employees discovered that she had inadvertently hitched a ride on a delivery truck to a sister facility in Garysburg, North Carolina.

When staff at the Richmond store realized Francine was missing, they reviewed surveillance footage, which showed her climbing into the truck just before the door was shut. Following her discovery, employees took swift action to bring her back home. They set humane traps and successfully captured Francine, allowing her to return to her familiar surroundings.

On July 8, 2024, two dedicated employees made the 90-minute drive to pick up Francine. She was back on the job the very next day, delighting customers with her playful antics and posing for photos. Her return brought relief and joy to both store staff and loyal shoppers who had missed her presence.

This incident highlights the strong bond between animals and their human companions, particularly in community spaces like retail stores. Francine’s adventure serves as a reminder of the unexpected paths that pets can take and the lengths people will go to ensure their safe return.