Manuel Vejar is a Navy recruiter who loves Siberian Huskies. Since he was young, he couldn’t wait to get his own Husky, so he bought Champ, a lovely Husky puppy, in 2011. While serving on the USS George H.W. Bush, Champ was cared for by his family.
Vejar returned and enjoyed six blissful months with Champ before the Husky flew away. Champ had always enjoyed running, but Vejar was worried that he had gone too far this time. Vejar, on the other hand, clung to his optimism.
According to Vejar and his family, Champ was nowhere to be seen. They looked everywhere and visited all of his favorite spots in town, such as the high school and cemetery.
Vejar was tormented by fear. But a huge part of him never lost faith. Finally, in 2017, he received an email asking about Champ’s microchip. As a result, Vejar claimed that the dog was still missing and that he hoped he was still out there somewhere.
Years later, an animal control officer paid Vejar’s home a visit. When Vejar was asked if he knew Champ, his face lit up. After seven years of waiting, patience has finally paid off.
Champ was found at a farm 13 miles away. Champ was seen at a farmer’s house for about a month, gradually gaining the trust of the terrified dog. After feeding and caring for the farmer, Champ warmed up to him. Champ, on the other hand, was limping and was taken to the vet by the farmer.
They checked the stray dog for a microchip at the vet, which led them back to Vejar. Champ would also require surgery to correct a dislocated elbow, which would cost approximately $3,500.
When Champ saw Vejar, his tail waggled for the first time in 7 years, and he licked his father from head to toe. Vejar started a GoFundMe campaign to cover all of Champ’s medical expenses. Before he knew it, a community of kind dog owners had raised enough money to pay for Champ’s surgery.
Champ is resting for the time being while he recovers from surgery. He is now aware, though, that he is loved and safeguarded by his family. Champ will soon have a new playmate to adore, as Vejar and his fiancée are expecting their first child. This story underscores the value of hope, particularly when it comes to those we care about.
All photos courtesy of Manuel Vejar Facebook