It’s always heartbreaking when a pet is stolen, but it’s important to not lose hope entirely. Sometimes lost pets return to their families in unexpected ways, months or even years after they disappeared.
That was the case recently, after one family’s dream came true when they were reunited with their long-lost dog after five years apart.
According to a Facebook post from the Humane Society of Southern Wisconsin, a dog named Ginger was stolen from her owner, Barney, five years ago. The family searched everywhere, but it seemed Ginger was gone for good.
Years passed, but still they never fully gave up hope that they would see their friend again. “They continuously searched for her and every time they saw a dog that resembled her in the slightest, it would ignite a spark of hope that maybe it was her,” the Humane Society wrote.
But their faith was finally rewarded recently, as Ginger made an unlikely return to their lives.
On May 1, the City of Beloit Police Department picked up a stray dog, and shared a photo hoping someone recognized it:
The dog was brought to the Humane Society, who days later received a call. It was from Barney, who saw the photo and recognized her as his long-lost Ginger.
He visited the shelter, and knew that this time, it really was her. “As soon as they saw each other, there was no doubt,” HSSW wrote.
“The excitement on the family’s faces, as well as Ginger’s, when they were finally reunited was beyond memorable.”
In the years since Ginger was taken from them, Barney’s family has grown: they adopted new dogs and welcomed another child, and Ginger got to meet her new “pack.”
The whole family is excited to have Ginger back where she belongs, and are looking forward to making up for lost time.
What great news! We’re so glad Barney and his family got their stolen dog back after five years — their hope that they would see Ginger again paid off in the end.
We’re so glad Ginger is finally safe and back where she belongs. Share this inspiring story!
