In Belo Horizonte, Brazil, the story of Edilson and his dog Abner has taken an unexpected turn: after losing him in 2020 during a walk, the owner saw him in a social media post and, five years laterShe was able to hug him again. The discovery was made possible thanks to the dissemination of images from a local shelter.
For months, the owner toured neighborhoods, put up signs, and contacted animal shelters without result, until the search became unsustainable and He decided to stop insistingHe even dismissed the idea of ​​living with another dog. Nothing suggested that a simple photograph would bring his companion back to him.
The disappearance and a search without leads
Abner got lost in the middle of the street and, despite initial efforts, no conclusive leads emerged. There were calls, visits to shelters, and posters in numerous areas of the city. After some time, Edilson admitted that hope had run out.
A shelter as a temporary home
Meanwhile, the dog was rescued from the street and taken in by the shelter. InvisÃveis Não Maiswhere she received veterinary care. Her advanced age and the mobility and vision difficulties They made him a candidate to stay long-term at the center, which focuses its work on older, disabled, or injured animals.
Over time, Abner became fully integrated into the life of the shelter and became a kind of ambassador for the association, participating in awareness-raising activities to promote responsible adoptions And remember that senior dogs also deserve a second chance.
The photo that changed everything
A group walk with dogs, organized by the shelter and supported by volunteer veterinary students, provided an opportunity to take a series of photos that were later shared on social media. Among those posts, Instagram It ended up being the channel through which the former owner saw an unmistakable face.
While scrolling through his feed, Edilson instantly recognized Abner and contacted the center to confirm what seemed obvious. After verifying the information, a visit was arranged, and the process culminated in a immediate recognition between them.
The reunion that seemed impossible
Last Monday, the owner showed up at the shelter and the scene was as simple as it was moving: the dog approached cautiously, sniffed, and then, the moment came long-awaited hugStaff at the center described the moment as one that leaves a lasting impression on the entire team.
The volunteers, visibly moved, emphasized that their goal has always been to give visibility to the so-called invisible. In their reflection, they insisted that Abner was not a worthless dog. but a lost companion that he needed a bridge to get back home.
What does this case teach us?
The experience highlights the work of shelters and the role that social media platforms can play in reuniting separated families. It also emphasizes that identifying the animal, notifying animal rescue organizations, and public collaboration increase the chances of a successful return. even after years.
In Spain and much of Europe, the microchip and registration Official databases facilitate the location of lost animals. Furthermore, immediate dissemination through social media, contact with shelters, and regularly checking animal welfare organizations' publications can be crucial.
- Post notices with recent photos and contact information in the lost pet area and veterinary clinics.
- Notify local animal shelters immediately and check their social media profiles daily.
- Keep the microchip and registration updated to expedite any identification.
- Organize coordinated searches with volunteers and take advantage of online neighborhood groups.
Edilson and Abner's journey proves that the constancyThe help of a shelter and the circulation of images on the internet can reunite a family after five years of separation, as well as highlight the work of those who care for the most vulnerable animals.
