Tyson the pug goes home after 5 years away

It took Tyson the pug five years to get home, but he's finally been reunited with his rightful owner.

"I'm still in shock right now," said Justine Holmlund from her home in Thunder Bay, Ont.

She was reunited with the pooch on Saturday, marking the end of many years of searching for her stolen companion.

Someone took Tyson in 2010 from in front of a Calgary supermarket, where he was tied up. Holmlund says she put up posters, offered a reward and contacted shelters. She would later moveout of the province, and says she almost gave up hope.

"It's been tough," she said of her fight to find Tyson over the last five years.

Pug found nearCrossfield

He was found by a resident in theCrossfieldarea, and was later taken in byGiovannaCarabella.

The dog lover, who rescues pugs, found Tyson and took him to a veterinarian clinic. The dog's ear tattoo helped Carabellatrack down Holmlund, who thentravelledto Alberta.

"He was kind of squeaking and squealing and finally I gave Tyson to her," she said of the reunion at the Calgary airport. "He was kissing her and licking her face, and she was crying.It was such an amazing reunion."

Holmlund said she was overwhelmed, but happy to see the pug.

"Last time I had him he was three, so he was an energetic little puppy," she said. "He's exactly the same, but an old man pug now so a lot more calmer."

Investigation underway

A criminal investigation into the matter is still underway.Holmlund says while she would like to see justice, butshe is just glad to have Tyson back home.

AirdrieRCMPareworking with Calgary police to find out what happened.

"Tyson was reported to be in good health and wiggling his tail when re-united with its owner," said Staff Sgt. Chad Fournier in a press release.

"It is always heartwarming to hear that kind of story."