When she was deployed overseas, an army soldier found solace and comfort in a stray puppy. They always had great times together. But when it was time to return home, the dog was left behind.
Erin Guthrie was a member of the Oregon Army National Guard as a sergeant. She and her crew were sent on an eight-month expedition to Kosovo. As a member of the team, she traveled to many locations, although the move was not always simple.
After a week in Kosovo, she discovered a lovely brown dog living on the streets. The stray was initially quite frightened, yet he showed Erin loyalty.
Erin developed affection for the puppy and named him Meeka after the Albanian word for friendship, miqsi. She brought Meeka to their base of operations and fed him. Since the dog was so at ease with Erin, she never left her side and the two have been inseparable.
Erin arranged a return ticket to New York after eight months have passed. Her farewell to Meeka was an emotional occasion for everyone who saw their close relationship.
Once Erin returned home, she could not stop thinking about her friend. She missed Meeka daily and was concerned about the dog’s well-being.
During the pandemic, Erin considered getting a dog as a companion. Even though there were shelters in her area, she knew that no one could be Meeka.
After much consideration, Erin sought help to be reunited with Meeka. She did some research and came across Paws of War, a rescue group with a program to reunite soldiers with the dogs they meet during deployment.
Paws of War was delighted to help Erin with her goal. The “War Torn Pups” campaign of the charity gathered nearly $6,000 to sponsor Meeka’s trip to the United States.
Erin and Meeka were finally reunited after working on stacks of paperwork and having restless nights. The once timid dog ran eagerly to his new fur mom, and the two gave each other a bear hug.
Erin was thrilled that the dog remembered her after such a long separation. She was also overjoyed to have met Meeka at the perfect time, and she was delighted to give him the life he deserves.
Source: 21