Fitou the mixed breed went missing from his family's farm all the way back in 2012. He was stolen by unscrupulous dog-nappers who pinch pooches and then sell them to new and unsuspecting owners.
His owners spent months searching for their beloved pet. They put up signs, contacted the local police, and sent Fitou's description to local animal shelters and rescue centres.
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Fitou is gone forever
But they never heard anything back. So, unfortunately, they accepted the sad reality of never seeing sweet Fitou again.
Ten years later, they received a phonecall that they never expected. It was from Hélène Martinazzo-Bruel, the director of an animal rescue centre over 200 miles away. She said that a dog had just arrived, and its microchip confirmed it was Fitou.
Fitou's people jumped straight into the car and set out on the long journey to the shelter. They were in shock during the whole two-hour drive, and it wasn't until they laid eyes on Fitou that they actually believed their missing family member was coming home.
Nobody knows what happened to Fitou during his 'lost years.' A whole decade of his life will remain a mystery forever! However, the dog was in excellent health, suggesting he'd been well-looked after.
"Fitou looked great," said one of his owners. "He wasn't abused or malnourished, which was a huge relief. Who knows where he's been or how he ended up so far away? To be honest, we don't care. He's back now and living his happy life with us. We just want to focus on that."
Microchipping is a legal requirement
If you haven't microchipped your pet, then now is the time to get it done. It's one of the best ways to ensure your dog can always find its way home.
It's also a legal requirement. Since 2016, owners of dogs and puppies over the age of eight weeks must microchip their pets and register the details on one of the UK's authorised databases. Those who fail to comply may face a fine of up to £500.
