A Tulsa, Oklahoma family is celebrating a miracle reunion after their 10-year-old Australian shepherd went missing and turned up more than 1,000 miles away. Rio slipped away from his home in mid-July, a habit his owner Melissa Burris knew all too well. He’s always been an escape artist, but he always came back. This time, he vanished for two weeks straight.
The call finally came from Guilford County Animal Services in Greensboro, North Carolina. Rio had been found by a good Samaritan and brought to the shelter. A quick microchip scan revealed exactly who he belonged to, and Burris got the news that left her floored. She flew out to North Carolina and drove Rio home. Shelter director Jorge Ortega says the cross-country move is a mystery that may never be solved.
Rio is back home now, smiling and doing great. His story is a powerful reminder of the importance of microchipping your pets. It’s a simple, painless procedure that can make all the difference if your furry friend ever wanders off. Has a microchip ever brought your pet home? Tell us about it in the comments.
About the Author
Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
