Sometimes, you just need a reminder why the bond between dog and human is the best in the world. This is one of those stories. It’s a good one.
Angel Santiago, a blind man from Chicago, endured two of the longest months of his life wondering where his 14-year-old Dachshund, Bam Bam, was and whether he would ever be able to hold him again. Then, one night, the phone rang – and everything changed.
A Theft That Broke a Family’s Heart
It happened in June right in Santiago’s own backyard. Two people walked in and just took Bam Bam. When Santiago realized what was happening he tried to confront them and run after them — but he fell a few times and couldn’t catch up. Can you imagine that moment? A man fighting with everything he had to get his dog back, and still coming up short. It’s heartbreaking.
Bam Bam wasn’t just a dog. Bam Bam was Santiago’s emotional support dog — his friend, his comfort, his constant.
The family didn’t just sit around after the theft. They put up flyers everywhere. Someone started a GoFundMe to help find him. A reward was offered. Santiago himself went out every day searching with the help of strangers who stopped to help the blind man find his best friend. He later thanked every single one of them publicly.
The Phone Call He Almost Didn’t Believe
It was 72 days later. His phone rang at 9 p.m. Santiago’s first thought: Prank. Scam. Almost hung up. The 16th District police station was calling with news that would bring Santiago to his knees.
Two people walked into the station with Bam Bam and turned him in, without answering any questions. The cops scanned the dog, found his microchip and traced back to Santiago. He and a friend raced to the station as fast as they could.
When Santiago arrived, he didn’t just believe someone when they said it was him. He made sure to check Bam Bam’s ears and face — the way only someone who really knows and loves their dog can. And yes, it was him. It was really him. Santiago was overcome.
Bam Bam Needed Some TLC
Oh Bam Bam! It was so great to see you again, but you had been through some rough times. A vet checked you out and saw that you were super thin, had overgrown nails and a couple of dried blood spots on your face. You were not your spunky self, and the most telling thing was that you would not fall asleep unless Santiago was right there next to you.
Well, that about says it, doesn’t it? After 72 days, Bam Bam knew where he felt safe.
Love That Never Wavered
Tales like this remind us how much our dogs mean to us, and how much we mean to them. Santiago never gave up, nor did the community. Bam Bam made it home, despite everything.
If you don’t already have your dog microchipped, this is your reason to do it. That little chip brought them home.
And tonight, somewhere in Chicago, a blind man and his 14-year-old Dachshund can finally sleep – together, where they belong.
Hi, I’m Ali Tarek, co-founder of Animalsman. I’ve always been passionate about pets, especially dogs and cats, and I created this website to share practical tips, easy recipes, and helpful care advice for fellow pet lovers. My goal is to make pet care simple, enjoyable, and accessible for everyone. When I’m not writing or curating content, you’ll usually find me spending time with my furry friends or learning new ways to keep them happy and healthy.
