In a turn of events both heartwarming and amazing, a dog who disappeared 11 years ago was reunited with his guardian, according to local news.
Snuggles the puppy went missing while Melanie Epperson’s grandson was watching him during her move to a new home. Amid the bustle of the day, and because the door was left open, the little dog was able to escape.
“I just never thought that I would ever see him again,” Epperson told WKBW.
Years passed, and the hope of a reunion faded. But then, out of the blue, the City of Buffalo Animal Shelter took in a new dog, scanned his microchip, and found Epperson’s information. Since her phone number had changed, the shelter got in touch with Epperson’s daughter and emergency contact, Chantel Stroud.
“I thought it was a prank at first,” Stroud said. “When they asked if I knew Snuggles I said, ‘Yeah, that was a long time ago.’ They then asked if I knew Melanie and I said, ‘That’s my mom.'”
Stroud then reached out to her mother, who was also in disbelief.
“When I got that call, at first, I thought my daughter was joking,” Epperson said. “I thought she was playing around.”
Thanks to a small chip, Snuggles’ perseverance, and the diligence of a local animal shelter, a family was made whole again after more than a decade apart. For Epperson, it was a second chance she didn’t think she’d get — and she plans to make the most of it.
“I Googled it, and he can live up to 18 years old,” Epperson said. “So, I have another 4 to 5 good years to snuggle Snuggles.”
Snuggles’ story is a powerful reminder of the importance of microchipping animal companions — and keeping that information up to date. It’s a simple step that can help reunite family members — no matter how long they’re apart.
