Remarkable Reunion: Lola Returns Home

Michelle Bluestone of Simi Valley experienced an incredible surprise last month when she received a phone call about her dog, Lola, who had been missing for five years. The call came from an animal shelter in Echo Park, informing her that Lola had been found and was waiting to be picked up.

Lola's Disappearance and the Search

Lola, a schnauzer mix, originally went missing in 2021 after escaping from a backyard in Reseda. Michelle Bluestone adopted Lola in 2018 when the dog was three years old. Following Lola’s escape, Bluestone actively searched for her, posting flyers and contacting local shelters, hoping her microchip would lead to a reunion.

Years of Uncertainty

Despite her efforts, weeks turned into months with no sign of Lola. “I just assumed that she was just not alive anymore, maybe she got hit by a car, maybe she got eaten by a coyote, I don't know,” Bluestone stated. She grieved the loss and moved forward with her life, relocating to Simi Valley, getting married, and adopting another dog.

The Unexpected Call

On February 26th, Bluestone received the life-changing phone call. “I picked up the phone, they asked if this was Michelle, I said ‘yes, this is she,’ Lola didn’t even cross my mind…and they said ‘we have your dog Lola here.’” Lola had been brought to the Echo Park shelter, where staff scanned her microchip and contacted Bluestone.

Lola's Condition and Homecoming

The mystery of Lola’s whereabouts during the five years remains unsolved. Bluestone described Lola as being a little “nappy, chunky,” with overgrown nails and some dental issues, but overall, in good health. “She’s still cuddly, she still likes to be held, belly rubs, you know, her tail wags, she makes these cute little sounds – she’s very much the same dog,” Bluestone shared.

Bluestone expressed gratitude that Lola was alive and thankful for the care she received, even if it wasn't ideal. She wishes Lola could share her story of the past five years.