All the world has watched as Australia’s fires have caused irreparable damage to the landscape and the country’s wildlife. In the Australian state of Victoria, one Golden retriever lost its home but managed to find its most beloved toy in the wreckage.
The Zagami family from Wairewa, Australia, returned to their home to find their entire property had been destroyed. Matt Zagami told the local news in Victoria that it was beyond devastating to have everything lost in one day. Not only did the Zagami family lose their house and everything in it, but they also lost their farm.
The Zagami family started to assess the damage to their property upon returning home. Their dog, OJ, was roaming around the rubble and came across his favorite stuffed toy. The Golden retriever’s stuffed animal had somehow survived the damaging blaze of the fire.
Along with the Golden retriever’s toy, Katie Zagami found her wedding dress. The Zagami family said that while they are very grateful for the few things they’ve been able to salvage, it doesn’t make up for the devastating loss they have had. Matt Zagami said every day they are reminded of all they’ve lost, and they are struggling with being back on the property.
To make matters worse, the family had just renovated the home to make it bigger. In addition to their Golden retriever, Matt and Katie have four children.
The Zagami family’s home was one out of eleven homes in Wairewa that was lost to the fires. The entire community was able to evacuate, but the loss is still monumental. The community is now working to recover from the disastrous fires and to support one another.
The Golden retriever’s stuffed animal has served as a reminder to take comfort in the small things in life. The story of OJ finding his favorite toy has gone viral, with people being incredibly touched by the reunion.
Credits: WeRateDogs Twitter
