How a Stray Dog Found Love—and a Stuffed Unicorn—That Changed His Life
Dogs often form deep emotional bonds with special objects, finding comfort and excitement in them. But for stray dogs, these simple comforts are often out of reach. This is the heartwarming story of one stray dog named Sisu—and his beloved purple unicorn.
A Plush Unicorn Steals a Stray Dog’s Heart
In Kenansville, North Carolina, a stray dog kept returning to a Dollar General store, not for food or shelter, but for a soft, purple stuffed unicorn. Time and again, the dog sneaked into the store, determined to take the same toy. Store employees finally called Duplin County Animal Control, reporting the unusual theft of a plush unicorn.
What followed was extraordinary.
Five Attempts, One Mission
Sisu—named after the brave, determined character from Raya and the Last Dragon—was utterly captivated by the unicorn. He made five separate attempts to snatch the toy before animal control intervened. Joe Newburn, manager of Duplin County Animal Services, recalls, “He went straight for the same unicorn every single time.”
What made this story unique wasn’t just the theft—it was the unmistakable bond between this stray and a simple stuffed toy.
Kindness in Action
When Officer Samantha Lane arrived to take Sisu into care, her heart broke seeing the dog without his cherished unicorn. So, with $10 of her own money, she bought the toy for him. Her simple act of kindness gave Sisu not just a toy—but a symbol of comfort and hope.
Lane’s generosity was typical of her dedication to animals. Newburn shared, “She always goes the extra mile. This time, it was just a different dog.”
A Toy That Meant the World
When Sisu arrived at animal services, he clung to the plush unicorn tightly, as if it was his only piece of home. Though it’s rare to reward shoplifting, it was clear that this toy was his treasure—his source of comfort amid uncertainty.
A Story That Captivated a Community
After the story went public, Sisu quickly became a local celebrity. Described as “sassy with other dogs” and “extremely respectful to people,” Sisu charmed everyone. Animal Services posted an adoption campaign highlighting his skills—heeling, sitting, and loving his unicorn above all else.
His story struck a chord far beyond Kenansville, spreading hope about the bond between animals and the simplest things.
From Stray to Beloved Family Member
Sisu’s attachment to the unicorn suggested he’d once known a loving home. Newburn speculated that the toy reminded him of better days. His tale touched many hearts, reminding us all that even the smallest things can carry deep meaning.
Soon, Sisu was adopted by a loving family, ensuring he finally had the safe, warm home he dreamed of.
A Community Comes Together
To celebrate, Dollar General gifted Sisu extra plush unicorns and sent a special thank-you gift to Officer Lane, along with donations to Duplin County Animal Services. The company praised Lane’s compassion and expressed happiness that Sisu had found his beloved toy—and a new home.
A Happy Ending, Wrapped in Purple
Now settled, Sisu continues to cherish his unicorn, a symbol of resilience, love, and new beginnings. His story is a touching reminder of how kindness can change lives and how even a stray dog can find hope—and happiness—in the most unexpected places.
