We all understand the deep gratitude we feel toward those who stand by us during our darkest times. Their support becomes the light that helps us find our way out. But gratitude isn’t a uniquely human emotion. Animals, too, can display extraordinary acts of appreciation. Today, we share the heartwarming story of an owl named Gigi, whose life was saved by the tireless efforts of her rescuer, Doug. Her way of saying “thank you”? Wrapping him in a hug every time she saw him.
Gigi’s journey began in a critical state. She was discovered after being struck by a car and brought to Wild at Heart Rescue in Mississippi. The impact left her with a severe head injury, causing a concussion, and her tiny body was riddled with parasites. On top of all that, she was battling aspergillosis, a fungal infection similar to pneumonia in humans. Gigi was so weak that her survival seemed impossible. Missy Dubuisson, the rescue’s founder, shared just how dire her condition was:
“The fact that this bird is alive is beyond comprehension. She is one of the most critically ill birds we’ve ever cared for.”
Despite the odds, Gigi’s resilience shone through, aided by the meticulous care of the rescue team and, most notably, Doug. Doug has a remarkable ability to bond with birds of prey, and his connection with Gigi was extraordinary. Missy noted, “In all my years working with birds of prey, I’ve never seen a connection like this. It brings tears to my eyes to see how the birds trust him so completely.”
For Gigi, Doug became more than a rescuer—he was a source of comfort and hope. Every time Doug visited, Gigi would light up, leaning into him and even giving him what could only be described as a heartfelt hug. The bond they shared was unmistakable, a beautiful testament to the profound connections animals can form with those who care for them.
Witnessing Gigi’s gratitude is a reminder of the compassion that exists between species. In her quiet, expressive way, she conveyed a message: love, trust, and gratitude transcend words.
This story isn’t just about the rescue of an owl—it’s about the extraordinary lengths humans can go to save a life and the profound way animals can respond when they know they are safe and loved. Watch the touching video below to see Gigi’s interactions with Doug. Her reactions are proof of how much animals can feel and express when given the chance.
Open your heart to the world of wildlife. Sometimes, all they need is a second chance—and a kind soul to give it to them.
