A thirteen-year-old dog was reunited with her family earlier this month after having been missing for 12 years, according to authorities.
The dog, named Zoey, “appeared old and unwell” after having been dropped off on a rural property outside of Stockton and discovered by someone who called authorities. This was back on February 10th and was shared by the San Joaquin County Sherriff’s Office via Facebook.
Animal Service Officer Brandon Levin picked up Zoey and scanned her microchip only to discover that she had been reported missing back in 2010 from Lafayette, CA. This was only about 60 miles from where she was found, according to the sheriff’s office.
Michelle, Zoey’s owner, is “still in shock” after Zoey had been reported missing for so long that the company who manufactures her microchip listed her as “deceased” in their records. “We got her at the pound when she was six months old with her twin sister…they were with us for about six months, and then we went to the store for about 20 minutes and came back, and she was missing,” shared Michelle.
Fortunately for Zoey and her owners, they still had the same number despite now living in Benecia. The sheriff’s office was able to connect with them and a reunion was set up in Rio Vista. A video was shared of Michelle being reunited with Zoey on Friday afternoon.
“I definitely didn’t expect this to ever happen, so I’m really excited,” said Michelle.