A Chicago man has been joyfully reunited with his loyal service dog nearly three months after the beloved pet was stolen right out of his backyard.
Bam Bam, a 14-year-old tan and white Dachshund, was taken on June 5 from the Logan Square neighborhood. His owner, Angel Santiago… who is legally blind due to glaucoma… relied on the pup not just for companionship but as a vital guide in his daily life.
According to police, two men entered Santiago’s yard through an unlocked gate and snatched Bam Bam. Santiago recalled hearing the commotion and even managing to grab one of the suspects, who he believes sounded like a teenager. Despite his efforts, the thieves got away with Bam Bam as the dog barked frantically.
Refusing to give up, Santiago walked miles around the neighborhood handing out flyers, desperate for his partner’s safe return. On a GoFundMe page created to aid the search, he wrote:
“Let your eyes be mine and look out for Bam Bam for me, please. I beg of you to help me.”
The heartfelt plea struck a chord across Chicago and beyond. Supporters rallied, raising nearly $20,000 to help cover search efforts and resources.
After months of heartbreak and uncertainty, Bam Bam has finally been returned to Santiago. Officials have not yet released details of how the reunion happened, but for Santiago, the relief is immeasurable. His faithful companion is home again, safe where he belongs.
