In 2017, during a move, his miniature pinscher, Damian, vanished.
Despite the time that passed, Paul never gave up hope.
Then, something unbelievable happened.
While en route to help wildfire victims in California, Paul got a call that changed everything.
Damian had been foundover 1,000 miles away in Oklahoma City!
Without hesitation, Paul and his husband drove 14 hours straight to reunite with Damian.
When they finally saw each other again, it was as if no time had passed.
Now, after nearly a decade apart, Damian is back home, right where he belongs.
Still, he made sure that if Damian was ever found, someone would be able to contact him.
My phone number and email have been the same for 20 years, Paul told Bored Panda.
I figured if there was ever a miracle, Id want to be easy to find.
A vet in Oklahoma City had shocking news: Damian had been found wandering along a busy road.
But after so much time, Paul was skeptical.
Honestly, my first thought was that it was a scam, Paul admitted.
I didnt want to get my hopes up because I thought someone might be trying to trick me.
Once the vet confirmed it was real, Paul and his husband dropped everything and hit the road.
The moment they scanned his microchip, they realized he had a family.
Whoever found him was an angel, Paul said.
Without them, I dont think Id ever have seen him again.
Paul wasnt sure if Damians memoryor even his sense of smellwas strong enough to recognize him.
But when the moment came, there was no doubt.
At first, he took a second to recognize me.
It was clear: Damian never forgot his family.
Its like we were never apart, except now he has a bit of separation anxiety.
I do too, Paul admitted.
Even a simple dinner out turned into an emotional moment.
Of course, I felt bad and took him with us.
The pup was so charming that everyone in the restaurant came over to hear his story.
News outlets everywhere have covered the heartwarming reunion, and Paul has done over 25 interviews so far.
Ive talked to People Magazine, ABC, CBSyou name it, he said.
I even have a publicist in the UK handling some media requests.
And the attention isnt stopping there.
Believe it or not, I had a Zoom meeting about a possible documentary just yesterday.
Fame is cool, but my biggest concern is getting him to the vet, he explained.
He really needs dental work, X-rays, and vaccines like a rabies shot.
One thing is for sureDamian is finally home, right where he belongs.
A post shared by Paul Victor Guilbeault (@paulguilbeault)
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