While on patrol on Sunday, March 8, an Irvine police officer came across an abandoned puppy and sprung into action. After the deputy could not locate an owner, the tiny dog was taken to the vet to be evaluated for injuries.

Now, a photo of the officer and his rescued four-legged friend is capturing the hearts of Irvine residents on social media, as the community is now calling the officer a hero.

“Last night, Officer Blevins found a dog abandoned on the side of the roadway. An owner could not be located & it appeared he was intentionally discarded. Officer Blevins took him to a vet where he is being treated. Once healed, he will be available to adopt from @IrvineAnimals,” the tweet read.

On Instagram, the IPD’s post received more than 2,000 likes and more than 100 comments from social media users praising the officer’s good deeds.

Instagram user @Kyle_Zick got straight to the point, simply commenting “HERO” on the post.

Neela, thriving. Three years later.

Another Instagram user @shdye wrote, “A big thank you to Officer Blevins!” followed by three clapping hands emojis.

Among the comments, Instagram user @Kimmy.Kimbo, who’s name is listed as Kim Fulcher Blevins on her account, said this is not Officer Blevin’s first experience rescuing an animal while on duty in Irvine.

“A few years ago while on duty Officer Blevins rescued an abused kitten from a dumpster. He took her to Irvine Animal Hospital where she received medical care for 2 weeks. Once she recovered, guess who adopted her!! Officer Blevins! Her name is Neela!” the user wrote.

Irvine Weekly was able to confirm via Instagram direct message that @Kimmy.Kimbo was actually Officer Blevin’s mother, Kim Blevins. She was kind enough to share more details about Officer Blevins’ rescuing the now three-year-old Neela.

“About three years ago, while on duty in Irvine, he retrieved an abused newly born kitten from a dumpster. It was wrapped in newspaper and alive. He took the kitten to Irvine Animal Hospital. The medical records showed a skull fracture. The kitten was hospitalized for 2 weeks,” Blevins said via Instagram direct message.

Prior to her adoption, Irvine Animal Control Center snapped a photo of Neela after she was nursed back to health.

Photo of Neela prior to being adopted by Irvine Police Officer Blevins. (Irvine Animal Services)

While Neela may have endured some trauma, Officer Blevins mother’ included some current photos of Neela, who seems to be thriving.

“When she was ready for discharge, the staff contacted my son to let him know that the kitten had recovered and told him they all thought that he should adopt her. She is a beautiful healthy cat and he named her Neela.”

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