Sharp-Witted Pup Foils His Own Dognapping, Ensuring a Joyous Reunion

Vango, a spirited five-month-old Australian Shepherd, played an unexpected role in his own rescue when he tipped off the staff at a pet store in Gatineau, Que., to his alleged dognapping.

A regular at Au Royaume des Animaux, Vango accompanied a couple who typically visited for cat food. However, on this day, Vango’s behavior was far from ordinary. He barked persistently and vied for attention, leaving Yves Jodoin, a store staff member and dog trainer, intrigued and concerned.

The couple’s lack of knowledge about Vango raised alarm bells. Basic information about the dog, such as his age, sterilization status, dietary preferences, and acquisition cost, seemed beyond their grasp. As Jodoin provided the dog with treats, Vango’s incessant barking continued, as if he was communicating a message.

A coworker’s quick search on social media unveiled the truth. Vango had been reported missing from his home in Buckingham, Que., a mere two and a half hours prior. Jodoin realized he had trained Vango as a puppy and his recognition triggered a joyful revelation.

With witnesses around, Jodoin confronted the couple. They claimed to have found Vango in the woods, stating their intention to keep him as a support animal due to the woman’s health challenges. Under the watchful eyes of onlookers, Jodoin implored them to relinquish the dog and contacted Vango’s rightful owner, Josée Francoeur.

Francoeur’s emotions were overwhelming when she received Jodoin’s call. She had placed Vango outside for a brief potty break that morning, only to discover he had vanished from their enclosed yard. Fearing the worst, she initiated a widespread search, even involving local authorities. The emotional toll was immense, until the phone call that changed everything.

Vango’s intervention at the pet store spared Francoeur a permanent loss. Grateful but saddened by the ordeal, she decided to file a police report, hoping to educate the couple about the repercussions of their actions. Her goal was to deter others from engaging in similar behavior.

Gatineau police are investigating the incident to determine if the dognapping was intentional or a misunderstanding. As the local SPCA de L’Outaouais uses this event to stress the importance of microchipping pets, Francoeur has already made arrangements to have Vango microchipped.

Vango’s keen instincts not only led to his triumphant return but have also sparked a conversation about responsible pet ownership and the value of microchipping. In a tale that showcases a pup’s intelligence and determination, the bond between humans and their four-legged companions shines ever brighter.

Vango’s keen instincts not only led to his triumphant return but have also sparked a conversation about responsible pet ownership and the value of microchipping. In a tale that showcases a pup’s intelligence and determination, the bond between humans and their four-legged companions shines ever brighter.