A legally blind man from Chicago has been reunited with his emotional support dog after a two-month search. On June 5, 2023, Angel Santiago’s 14-year-old tan and white dachshund, Bam Bam, was stolen from his backyard in Logan Square. Santiago, who lost his vision due to glaucoma, reported that two unidentified individuals entered his property and took Bam Bam.
In the weeks following Bam Bam’s disappearance, Santiago dedicated himself to finding his beloved pet. He walked as much as seven miles each day, distributing flyers and calling out for Bam Bam in hopes of bringing him home. “My Bam Bam is my world,” Santiago expressed. “I don’t care how far I had to walk, day and night. I don’t care how many times I fell down.”
To support his efforts, a GoFundMe campaign was launched, raising nearly $20,000. The funds were allocated for reward money, pet detective services, and materials for organizing volunteer groups to canvass the area. Santiago’s determination proved fruitful when he received a call from the 16th District Police Department late one night.
Successful Reunion After Two Months
On the evening of the reunion, Santiago initially thought the call might be a prank. However, it turned out to be genuine news that Bam Bam had been located. The dog was returned after being dropped off by a man and a woman at the police station. Notably, the pair left quickly and did not provide any contact information, according to the Garrido Stray Rescue Foundation.
Santiago described the emotional moment of reuniting with Bam Bam. “I held him in my hands, I checked his ears to just make sure it truly was him, and it really was Bam Bam. I couldn’t believe it,” he said. He expressed gratitude for the community support he received during his search, stating, “Everyone who called in, wishing their support for me, thank you. I will never forget this.”
While the police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Bam Bam’s theft, Santiago’s story serves as a powerful testament to the bond between humans and their pets. The emotional support that animals provide can be life-changing, as demonstrated by Santiago’s relentless pursuit to bring Bam Bam back home.
