NEW ORLEANS — A New Orleans dog, known for his adventurous spirit and resilience, has finally been recaptured and returned to a safe home after months of eluding capture. Scrim, a scruffy mutt weighing 17 pounds, became a local legend after escaping from his adopted family in April and roaming the streets of the city. His journey lasted several months, and in a dramatic twist, he even managed to escape once more by jumping out of a second-story window, an act that was captured on video and shared widely online.
Throughout his time on the run, Scrim faced many challenges, including a hurricane and frigid weather conditions. A dedicated group of volunteers worked tirelessly to track his movements across an expansive area of 57 square miles (148 square kilometers), utilizing wildlife surveillance cameras and a community-sourced map that noted sighting locations.
Eventually, Scrim was successfully trapped with the help of a cat trap, as explained by Michelle Cheramie, the leader of the animal rescue organization Zeus’ Rescues. Cheramie, who previously worked in information technology, has devoted her life to rescuing animals after losing her home in Hurricane Katrina in 2005. She asserted that her purpose is to save animals in need.
On Tuesday, Cheramie joyfully cradled Scrim after giving him a necessary bath; he appeared calm and was reported to be in good health following a veterinary check-up. During his previous escape last year, Scrim suffered some cuts and there were concerns about small bullets embedded in his fur, which pointed to the dangers he faced during his months of freedom.
Scrim’s experiences have taken a toll, and Cheramie expressed her determination to provide him with a safe and nurturing environment. “He’s been through so much. I just needed him to be safe. He’s definitely not a feral dog,” she remarked. Cheramie intends to offer Scrim the comforts he deserves, including access to long walks and veterinary care, ensuring that he feels secure from any frightening noises that might unsettle him.
The dog’s rescuers came to Cheramie’s home to greet the saved pet, reminiscing about their long search while Scrim comfortably rested under blankets on the couch. Cheramie is taking every precaution to prevent any future escapes — securing all doors and windows as she awaits the next chapter for Scrim, which includes joining a family whose identity she has chosen to keep private. To ensure his safety, Scrim has also been fitted with a GPS collar and an AirTag tracking device.
Before he heads to his new home, Cheramie is relishing the time she gets to spend with Scrim. “Tonight, he’ll be sleeping in bed with me, and it’s going to be wonderful,” she shared. “This moment of having him in my arms is everything I’ve ever wanted.”
