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Arizona Man Reunites With Lost Dog After 8 Years

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An Arizona man has experienced a heartwarming reunion with his long-lost dog after eight years of separation.

Paul Guilbeault, a local photographer, was overjoyed to be reunited with his Miniature Doberman Pinscher, Damion. This incredible story, which spanned multiple states and years, began with a surprising phone call from the American Kennel Club.

They informed Guilbeault that Damion had been found over a thousand miles away in Oklahoma City.

Dog immediately recognizes owner despite being away for 8 years

For Paul, the news felt almost unbelievable. Damion had been missing since 2017, when he ran away during a stop in Oklahoma City on their way back to Arizona.

Despite Paul’s extended stay and extensive search efforts—including flyers, social media posts, and reaching out to the community—Damion remained elusive.

Jump ahead to late 2024, when Rick Chambers, a resident of Oklahoma City, discovered a stray dog near his home, as reported by AZCentral.

Though the dog was thin, it was clear that someone had been intermittently caring for him. Concerned for the dog’s well-being, Chambers took him to a local veterinarian. A microchip scan revealed that the stray was indeed Damion.

When Paul received the call from the American Kennel Club, he was initially skeptical, thinking it might be a scam.

However, once he realized the call was legitimate, he was overwhelmed with joy. Without wasting any time, Paul and his husband Julian set off on a 14-hour drive to Oklahoma City to bring Damion home.

The reunion was nothing short of emotional. Damion’s tail wagged furiously as he recognized Paul, proving that their bond had endured the long separation.

Though Damion now looked more like a Chihuahua than a Doberman, as Paul noted, his spirit was unchanged.

The years apart had left their mark on Damion. He now eats less and shows signs of aging, but he has adapted well to his new life with Paul’s two other dogs.

To Paul’s delight, Damion even remembered his parents’ house, showing clear signs of joy and familiarity upon arrival.

This touching story is a testament to the enduring bond between a man and his dog, proving that love and connection can survive even the longest separations.

About the author

Sally Hall

Sally Hall

Originally from Bethlehem, PA, I moved to the UK in 1992 to follow my passion for veterinary care, earning a Veterinary Technology certificate in 1995. After exploring different paths, I found my true calling in dog training. With certifications like CPDT-KA, CPDT-KSA, CNWI, and CSAT, I now specialize in canine behavior and am an active member of several professional organizations. full bio.

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