Cape Town - She was at her wits' end last week after her therapy dog, a Jack Russell named Cashew, disappeared.
Michelle Koopman was so desperate to find her dog, she put up a R5000 reward.
Her story was widely shared online after the Cape Argus published her plea on Thursday last week, and on Tuesday evening, Koopman and Cashew were reunited.
Michelle Koopman had enlisted the help of her community to find her lost therapy dog, Cashew. Picture: David Ritchie/African News Agency (ANA)
Cashew was found at Maitland Cemetery.
Also read: R5 000 reward to find therapy dog Cashew
Koopman got a tip-off on Tuesday that Cashew had been spotted at the cemetery, and she and her friends immediately followed it up.
Michelle Koopman of Elsies River. Picture: David Ritchie/African News Agency (ANA)
Cashew spotted her before she saw him, and he ran towards her.
"I did not give up! I would like to thank each and every one of you who helped me look for Cashew," Koopman said.
Cashew
"Thank you for every person who mailed me to update me on any news. Thank you for the prayers and support."
Koopman had been abused by her mother as a child. When she saw Cashew in 2015, he reminded her of her childhood pet who helped her cope with the abuse.
As a result of her experience, Koopman said she now plans to volunteer Animal Anti-Cruelty League branch in Epping.
Picture: David Ritchie/African News Agency/ANA
"I also have a meeting scheduled with the Manager of that branch to discuss me going out there, teaching kids and adults how to care for their dog, letting them know what the emergency numbers are in all areas in case they need to report that a dog is ill or has been knocked down," Koopman said.