Vanessa Antonino’s Long-Awaited Reunion
For nearly 12 years, Flor, a beloved Chihuahua, was missing from Vanessa Antonino’s life. Antonino described her pet as her constant companion, a shadow always by her side. After Flor disappeared in Chicago’s North Side, Antonino spent months searching but ultimately could not find her furry friend. She speculated that perhaps someone provided Flor a better home.
The mystery surrounding Flor ended with an unexpected phone call. On Tuesday, the Evanston Animal Shelter reached out to Antonino with surprising news: Flor had been found. Antonino’s reaction was one of overwhelming joy, marked by tears and shaking.
Discovery and Rescue
Flor was found in Gary, Indiana, where recent severe storms caused widespread damage. A construction worker visiting from Louisiana to assist with storm cleanup efforts discovered Flor wandering the streets. The worker brought her to Griffith Animal Control and Shelter, where staff located a small microchip in the dog’s ear.
“When you microchip an animal, there’s a lot of behind-the-scenes info someone can capture,” explained Maddie Ratkowski, a veterinary student intern at the Evanston Shelter.
The microchip was outdated, lacking a current phone number. Griffith Animal Control contacted Microchip Hunters, a volunteer group dedicated to tracing “dead-end microchips” and connecting pets with owners. Their efforts confirmed that Flor’s owner lived in Evanston.
The Emotional Reunion
Upon hearing the news, Antonino was in disbelief until she was reunited with Flor. Antonino, along with her four children, drove to the shelter in Gary to collect Flor. The reunion was filled with emotion, marking a significant moment for Antonino and her family.
Antonino’s children were born after Flor went missing but understood her importance in their mother’s life. They eagerly anticipated bringing Flor home.
Flor’s Condition and the Importance of Microchipping
Flor is in good health, exhibiting remarkable wellness for her age. She received flea and tick treatment and deworming at Griffith Animal Shelter.
Flor’s journey from Chicago to Gary remains unexplained, but Ratkowski emphasized the importance of microchipping pets. Every stray in Evanston is scanned for a microchip at the shelter, improving the chances of reuniting them with their owner.