Submitted by Pug Rescue South Africa
Professional photography by Moonshadow Fine Art Dog Photographer
In 2021, Cheryl from Pug Rescue South Africa received a heart-breaking message:
“I’m trying to get my two Pugs to Paraguay, but I’m not being successful. May I surrender them to you?”
The answer, of course, was yes. They were Pugs in need.
That September, while fundraising in Cape Town, Cheryl and her husband travelled back to Benoni with two very special passengers – Max, then nine years old, and Mika, seven years. The hand-over had been very emotional. Sensing the bond these boys shared with each other and their gentle natures, Cheryl made the decision to keep them with her rather than place them up for adoption, a decision that in the end was the right one.
Sadly, in February this year, Max crossed the Rainbow Bridge at the age of 13.
Then, at the end of October, an unexpected message arrived.
Mika’s previous family had returned to South Africa. They asked if they might apply to adopt Mika again. They understood and respected the process. If they weren’t approved, they’d accept that outcome.
A home check was arranged and conducted on Saturday afternoon, the 8th of November. And they were approved.
Just hours later, in the early morning of the 9th of November, they left Cape Town and drove through to Benoni to collect their beloved Mika.
The reunion was emotional with many tears. At first, Mika approached slowly, a sniff, a pause, a moment of uncertainty. And then, recognition. Licks everywhere. After four years, Mika found his family again. Max’s ashes were also sent home with his family.
Mika’s mom later shared how grateful she was to have him back in mint condition, still the same gentle, happy soul, just with a few more grey hairs.
We’re so thankful that Mika was never placed for adoption because this reunion was meant to be. His family came back for him. And now, Mika is once again living the life he loves, surrounded by familiar love and comfort, back in Cape Town.
At Pug Rescue South Africa, we rescue, rehabilitate, rehome, and when necessary, provide lifelong sanctuary to Pugs in need in South Africa. And every now and then, we’re gifted with moments like this, where love truly finds its way home.
