The friendship and love found between a dog and their chosen human can overcome any obstacle. Oregon Army National Guard Sgt. Erin Guthrie knew this for a fact when she reunited with the stray she named Meeka. Erin met Meeka in Kosovo during a peacekeeping mission. Meeka was a timid dog, but they formed an instant connection when they met.
Erin says that spending time with Meeka gave her peace while she was in a difficult situation. Meeka brightened up her day and gave her something to look forward to during the mission. The pair developed a strong bond. However, Erin had to leave after 8 months in Kosovo.
Bringing Meeka to the US
Erin started looking for a dog when she was in quarantine on her way home. She researched local dogs that she could adopt but she couldn’t forget gentle Meeka. He was the only dog that she wanted because he was her dear friend. Even Meeka’s name reflected their relationship. She named the stray Meeka because Meeka is short for a word that means friendship in Albanian.
Erin wanted to see her friend again. Fortunately, she found Paws of War, which is a non-profit organization that helps soldiers reunite with their dogs. Paws of War eventually raised over six thousand dollars for Meeka and Erin through their War Torn Pups program. Meeka will finally be able to go to the US.
Reuniting Erin and Meeka
According to Robert Misseri the co-founder of Paws of War, there is a lot of paperwork and obstacles involved in reuniting soldiers with their dogs. However, he feels that it’s worth it. Erin probably agrees since the lengthy quarantine process didn’t deter her from reuniting with Meeka.
When the two met, Erin felt nervous. She wasn’t sure that her friend will recognize her after they spent so much time apart. However, Meeka knew her the moment he laid eyes on her. The timid and gentle dog approached her just like before. Erin says that it felt amazing.
Check out the video below to see Erin and Meeka reunite.
Image and Video Credits: CBS New York