Chicago man reunited with his dog thanks to Paws and Claws

Chicago man reunited with his dog thanks to Rochester woman.

The latest local, regional and national news events of the day are presented by the ABC 6 News Team, along with updated sports, weather and traffic.

(ABC 6 News) – The old saying “Man’s best friend” couldn’t be truer when it comes to William Bates and his dog Sheeba.

At Paws and Claws in Rochester, they are all about finding a special home for the many furry friends inside. Even if it means driving from Rochester, all the way to Chicago, to make sure a dog can go home.

You may recognize Kristi Ziegler from our pet of the week segment on ABC 6 News Good Morning.

“I retired a couple years ago and coming to paws has change me in every which way,” said Ziegler.

Ziegler’s love for animals recently helped reunite a dog with her owner over 300 miles away in Chicago.

— RELATED: Pet of the Week: Zeus

“It’s pretty unique I would say. We have driven dogs to other rescue in other states before. It doesn’t happen very often, but it has happened. But never to an owner who was kind of down on his luck and need help,” said Tanya Johnson the director of Paws and Claws.

William Bates dog Sheeba was being watched by someone in Rochester, but the woman surrendered the dog to Paws and Claws.

“I was actually trying to get up there to get my dog back, but I wasn’t able to. I ran into car troubles and I’m still having car troubles,” said Bates.

“And she said would you be willing to transport a dog to Chicago and initially I’m like what dog what’s going on I didn’t know the whole story,” said Ziegler.

But Ziegler loaded Sheeba up in her car and off they went to Chicago.

“She was super on a walk, she was super in the car. She was just a blast I had so much fun with her. So, I knew it was going to be a joyful road trip with her,” said Ziegler.

And the reunion between Sheeba and William was one neither of them will ever forget.

“She was very nice. We spoke have been in contact since she brought my dog back and whatever. It was real nice, it was a blessing,” said Bates.

“Immediately when we met, we hugged. Sheeba was so excited,” said Ziegler.

Ziegler says when they do rehome dogs, they do worry that the dog is going to a good home, but she has no doubt in her mind that Sheeba and William are the perfect pair.