Blues Story

A tiny kitten named Blue is bringing a community together in the most unexpected and heartwarming way, after surviving injuries that could easily have ended her life.

Blue came into the care of Derby Animal Welfare Group (DAWG) following a suspected dog attack, arriving in an incredibly fragile state. 

She had a partially torn front leg, a serious wound to her neck and an infection that had set in after a delay in receiving treatment. It was confronting and there was no soft way to take it in—but even then, there was something about her that stood out.

Despite everything she had been through, Blue was alert, responsive and quietly determined. She sought comfort, leaned into affection and came to terms with re-learning to walk on her surviving three legs. It was clear she hadn’t given up.

Her name came just as naturally. Blue was found and brought into care on the night of the May Blue Moon - a rare moment for a kitten whose survival already felt just as rare. It seemed fitting for something so small to carry such an uncommon kind of strength.

Veterinarians confirmed she would need urgent surgery, including the amputation of her damaged leg and treatment to close her neck wound. In many cases like this, the kindest option can be to let an animal go. But Blue made her own intentions clear. She was still fighting and so DAWG chose to fight alongside her and put the call out to the community to assist in Blue’s care.

What followed has been nothing short of incredible. People from across Derby, along with friends, family and supporters from further away came together to help. Donations steadily came in, eventually reaching $1,866, with an additional $1,000 generously given by local organisation Emama Nguda Aboriginal Corporation.

But beyond the numbers, it has been the feeling behind it all that has meant the most. Seeing so many people care, share her story and rally around one tiny kitten has been a genuine joy for everyone involved.

Blue’s surgery took place on Thursday 11 June and it was not without its challenges. At one point, her condition became critical as her temperature and heart rate dropped, but the veterinary team acted quickly and were able to bring her back and complete the procedure.

Now back in Derby, Blue is recovering well. She still has some pain to work through, but her personality is already shining through again. She is playful, cheeky and curious—happily chomping at anything that moves, whether it’s another cat, a passing foot, or something only she can see.

She has a long road ahead, but she is well and truly on it.. Now that she has settled into her forever home!

For those who have followed her story, Blue has become something more than just a rescue case. She is a reminder of how strong even the smallest lives can be and how powerful a community can be when it comes together.

Anyone who would like to follow her journey or to learn more is encouraged to get in touch with DAWG.

September 2026