For months, a small terrier mix known as Scrim has mystified the residents of New Orleans. Despite the relentless efforts of dedicated citizens equipped with night-vision goggles and nets, the elusive canine continues to evade capture, becoming a local legend in the process.
Scrim’s tale begins with his rescue from a semi-feral existence in a trailer park. After being adopted from a shelter, he briefly settled into a home before escaping in April. His life on the run has since captured the public’s imagination, leading to tributes including tattoos, T-shirts, and even a song written by local fans.
The orchestrator behind the attempts to recapture Scrim is Michelle Cheramie. After losing everything in Hurricane Katrina, Cheramie found her purpose in rescuing animals. She founded Zeus’ Rescues, a nonprofit shelter, and has been instrumental in Scrim’s rescue efforts. Cheramie’s determination saw her go to great lengths, even taking a course on tranquilizing animals.
Despite capturing Scrim briefly in October, the dog escaped once more by leaping from a second-story window. This bold escape was caught on video and went viral, further cementing Scrim’s status as a folk hero. His escapades have united a community in their search and sparked debates about animal freedom.
Supporters like David W. Brown have utilized technology to aid the search, creating a Google Map to track Scrim’s sightings. Meanwhile, the pursuit has provided solace to individuals like Tammy Murray, who found renewed purpose in the hunt after personal hardships.
The search has not been without challenges. Volunteers have come close to capturing Scrim, only for him to slip away at the last moment. Stealth tactics, such as switching from a diesel van to a quieter Vespa, have been employed in hopes of closing in on him.
Social media has played a significant role, with the hashtag #FreeScrim gaining traction. However, Cheramie and her team still believe in finding a safe home for Scrim, contrary to those advocating for his continued freedom. The streets of New Orleans, they argue, are not safe for a dog to navigate unprotected.
Scrim’s story exemplifies a mix of resilience, community spirit, and the complexities of freedom and safety for animals. As the search continues, the hope remains to find a place where Scrim can live securely and peacefully, away from the dangers of street life.
Source: News4jax
