Navy sailor’s dog was given away while he served. Social media led to a reunion

The sad story of a sailor whose dog was given away while he was on a combat deployment now has a happy ending.

Paulo Silva, a Freehold native and current Virginia resident who took to social media to plead for the return of his beloved golden retriever Archie, followed up by announcing the situation’s resolution on June 4.

Archie’s place: Sailor returned from combat to find his beloved dog was given away; he wants Archie back

“I’m very happy to share that Archie has safely returned to me,” Silva wrote. “I want to sincerely thank the family who has been caring for him during this time. Your kindness, care, and love for Archie have not gone unnoticed, and I am deeply grateful for everything you’ve done. I appreciate the time and effort you’ve given to ensure his well-being.”

He added: “As a gesture of goodwill and appreciation, I’ve connected the family with a wonderful golden retriever breeder who specializes in training dogs for families with special needs. The breeder has graciously offered to donate one of their puppies, which I hope will be of great benefit to their family.”

The story attracted widespread attention.

Silva, a Freehold Borough High School graduate who enlisted in the Navy in 2014, returned June 1 from an eight-month combat deployment aboard the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman to encounter stunning news. A relative in Toms River who he’d asked to care for Archie while he was gone gave the dog away, and initial attempts to locate him and bring him back proved futile.

In a follow-up interview with the Asbury Park Press June 5, Silva emphasized that the Freehold family that had taken Archie in is not to blame, and his initial misgivings about their intentions was a misunderstanding.

“Jamie Rae Goldstein and her family have been nothing but beautiful and supporting in all this,” Silva said. “I can’t thank them enough for being so supportive in this situation.”

On Facebook, he implored the public to “stop any further harassment, threats, or negative actions directed at the family. This situation has been difficult for all involved, and it’s important that we move forward with kindness, understanding, and respect. The family is not at fault, and I believe we can all agree that it’s time to put this chapter behind us for the sake of everyone involved, especially Archie.”

Speaking by phone, Silva told the Press he’s “speechless” by the “overwhelming” amount of support he’s gotten throughout the ordeal.

“Thank you to everyone who has shown support throughout this situation,” he posted on Facebook. “I am incredibly grateful for the love and care our community has shown, and I’m happy to bring Archie home where he belongs.”

Jerry Carino is community columnist for the Asbury Park Press, focusing on the Jersey Shore’s interesting people, inspiring stories and pressing issues. Contact him at jcarino@gannettnj.com.

This post was originally published on this site be sure to check out more of their content.