It’s been over a year since the COVID-19 pandemic changed all of our lives, and social distancing and travel regulations have kept many people from seeing their loved ones in person.
Like one man, who feared an old friend wouldn’t recognize him after so long apart — but instead got a wonderful reunion that has now become a viral video.
Five years ago Hayden Kristal, a comedian and public speaker, brought home a deaf and blind puppy named Bitsy.
Despite her disabilities, Bitsy quickly adjusted to her new home and became a beloved part of the family.
“Bitsy is the sweetest, friendliest, most loving and loyal dog in the world,” Hayden told The Dodo. “She is bold and sassy and she loves adventure!”
She’s even won over Hayden’s father, Steve Krystal, who quickly became attached to the dog and spoiled her with toys.
“He is her number one fan and her biggest champion,” Hayden said.
Sadly, the Hayden and her father were separated last year by coronavirus restrictions — which also meant that he couldn’t see his favorite dog.
Luckily, they were all finally able to be together again recently — but Steve worried if things had changed.
“My dad was very worried that… Bitsy wouldn’t recognize him after one year apart due to quarantine,” Hayden wrote on TikTok.
But whatever worries they had quickly disappeared once Bitsy was reunited with her old friend. She quickly ran up and licked Steve, who was clearly thrilled the dog still recognized him:
“As soon as I got within scent range she totally lost her mind with joy,” Steve wrote on Facebook. “So did I.”
Hayden shared the video on TikTok and other social media sites, where it has delighted people as it’s gone viral.
But no one was happier than Steve, who says the touching reunion is a testament to the dog’s intelligence.
“Once again Bitsy proved that the abilities she has are far more impressive than the ones she is missing,” he wrote. “What a truly amazing and wonderful soul.”
What a touching reunion! It shows how strong a dog’s love can be — even after a year apart, and while missing most of their senses, they’ll still recognize their family.
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