The story of Milo, a dog stolen from a Toronto shelter and later recovered in Pickering, has taken another turn: He’s found his forever home with a Durham police officer who fell in love with him after being involved in the case.

The cheerful pooch, a 10-month-old lab-hound mix, was introduced to the media Thursday morning at Durham police headquarters, where Const. George Tudos provided an update on the whirlwind story that began when Milo was stolen from the Toronto Humane Society shelter. The dog has now been adopted by the officer and is settling in to his new home.

“The dog’s been on quite an adventure,” said Tudos.

Milo went missing August 9 when a man walked into the kennel area of the shelter, slipped a leash on him, and walked out. Police were able to determine the suspect boarded an eastbound GO train and rode to the end of the line in Oshawa.

On August 11, police tracked the suspect down in Pickering. Christopher Rich, 31, of no fixed address is charged with theft, possession of property obtained by crime and breach of probation.

Tudos said the incident generated a great deal of interest, and it’s that fascination with the story that led to its happy conclusion. Police were provided with tips that led them to a suspect, who was in possession of the dog when they located him in Pickering.

That’s when the officer, who wished to remain anonymous, came into contact with Milo. A dog owner, she provided the pooch with a much-needed drink of water, and then was tasked with driving him back to the Humane Society pound. It was on that trip a bond was formed, Tudos said.

“Right away she really grew fond of this dog,” he said. The cop, who was looking for a canine companion for her dog at home, asked about adopting Milo that day. He came home with her this week.

“Since bringing Milo home, he’s been nothing short of wonderful,” the officer said in a message relayed by Tudos.

That wonder has included the energetic Milo eating a slipper and chewing through his harness.

“But it’s OK,” the officer opined. “Milo’s been a great addition.”

During Thursday’s media event, Milo, apparently oblivious to his rapid rise to fame, cavorted about a conference room, nibbling at dog treats Tudos kept pulling from his pocket. His happy-go-lucky disposition is disarming, Tudos noted as he discussed the officer’s instant affinity for the pooch.

“After meeting this dog briefly this morning, I can understand why,” he said.

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