Longest Resident At Florida Animal Shelter “Absolutely Recognized” Former Caregiver In Emotional Reunion

Thanks to a microchip and the dedication of a few humans, one of the longest residents of a Florida animal shelter is finally home.

 Six-year-old Nala had been at Marion County Animal Services (MCAS) in Ocala for nearly three years when a new director took over and decided to do whatever it took to find her a family.

“Staff and volunteers have loved her and provided the best life they could, but a shelter is not enough for a decent quality of life,” the shelter wrote on Facebook last week. “During her time with us, she’s had her fair share of drive-thru chicken nuggets, been to state and local parks, visited volunteers’ homes, tried dock diving, and more.” 

Determined to find Nala a forever home, officials started by taking a closer look at her microchip history. 

“The records showed that when the dog arrived at MCAS, many phone calls were made to a disconnected number attached to the microchip, and no one came forward to claim her,” the shelter explained. “A deep dive of the microchip history led to the original caregiver of Nala, who thought she was living happily with the person she adopted her to all those years ago. As it turned out, that person died, and Nala’s life was turned upside down. Since then, she’s been in multiple homes.” 

“With fingers crossed for luck, our director asked the original caregiver if she would consider adopting her and putting an end to her extensive time in our shelter.”

And… she said yes!

“Her time has finally come,” MCAS wrote. “After nearly 3 years in a shelter, Nala had her freedom ride.”

After a several hour drive, the two were reunited last week. 

“We could tell that Nala absolutely recognized her—after all those years. Our hearts were so full and we couldn’t believe she was leaving,” the shelter shared. “Please let this story be your push to update your pet’s microchip. Without the microchip, this day would not have happened for Nala.”

Welcome home, Nala!