Even in the face of heartbreaking neglect, hope can emerge in the most surprising ways, as demonstrated by the touching story of a Bulldog named Rome.
Rome, a gentle Bulldog, was found tied to the gate of a shelter in Texas, alongside a tiny Chihuahua. They seemed to have been left with just a coat, a blanket, and a few scattered toys.
The scene was distressing, but unfortunately not unfamiliar to the staff at Austin Pets Alive! Without delay, they took the pair in, unaware of the surprising story behind Rome’s past.
From the outset, Rome showed love and affection, leaving everyone puzzled as to why he was abandoned. As part of their routine procedure, the staff began the intake process, which included scanning for a microchip.
What they discovered was unexpected.
Rome had not been left behind by his family, as it appeared. He had disappeared one day from his home in Perris, California, and never returned. How he ended up over 1,000 miles away in Texas remained a mystery.
Sharing their discovery through an Instagram video, the rescue group remarked, “Rome was found tied to a gate at @austinpetsalive over 1,000 miles away with no ID, alongside a small chihuahua.
Thanks to his microchip, we traced him back to his original family.”
The call to his family was met with disbelief. Years prior, they had searched extensively for Rome, putting up flyers, visiting shelters, knocking on doors, and sharing countless posts on social media.
Eventually, they had to come to terms with his absence.
But one unexpected phone call changed everything.
Without wasting any time, Rome’s family made the drive from California to Texas, eager to bring him home. The reunion that followed was nothing short of magical.
As they approached Austin Pets Alive!, nerves were high. Would Rome recognize them after all this time? Could he still remember their voices, their smell, the bond they once shared?
The moment they saw each other, any worries disappeared. Rome dashed towards his family, clearly remembering them, and embraced them with total joy.
Climbing onto his father’s lap, Rome showered him with kisses, wagging his tail non-stop as if trying to make up for the years apart.
Though the mystery of how Rome ended up so far from his home may never be solved, one thing was certain: the confusion and fear of those years vanished the instant he was reunited with his family.
Austin Pets Alive! shared, “Rome is finally back with the family that never stopped loving him, and he’s on his way back to California to start his next chapter—right where he belongs.”
Rome’s tale concluded with an incredibly happy ending, all thanks to a small yet crucial detail: his microchip.
The rescue organization continues to emphasize the importance of keeping pets microchipped and ensuring their information is up to date. They concluded by advising, “Microchips reunite families. Make sure your pets’ is up to date.”
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