Scrim defies capture and becomes a beloved New Orleans legend

In New Orleans, a 17-pound terrier mix named Scrim has become a local folk hero after he escaped from his new home. Rescued from a semi-feral existence at a trailer park and adopted from a shelter, Scrim broke loose in April 2021. Initially roaming the city, he manages to evade volunteers and animal capture efforts for several months. Cheramie, who adopted him, invested thousands of dollars in surveillance gear and training to safely capture Scrim. She and a network of dedicated volunteers, including local writers and community members, embarked on a quest to locate him. Over the months of searching, Scrim has inspired a sense of community among residents. Volunteers grid-search the city at odd hours while providing supplies to those in need. Despite several attempts at capture — including the use of traps and a tactical net launcher — Scrim continues to elude capture. His escapades have resonated with the community, leading to the creation of tattoos, T-shirts, and a ballad celebrating his mischievous spirit. Scrim's popularity has surged, turning him into a symbol of resilience and tenacity in the face of adversity. His escapades have led some volunteers to feel like cartoon characters, continuously devising new plans and gadgets to catch the elusive dog. Traps have been set up, but Scrim often finds ways to slip through the gaps, illustrating the challenges faced in attempting to rescue him. While some members of the search party are frustrated, others find joy in the camaraderie the effort has created. Ultimately, the community hopes for a time when Scrim can be reunited with a safe and loving environment, as his life on the streets poses numerous dangers. Cheramie and the team believe that the streets of New Orleans are no place for a dog to be free and are dedicated to bringing him back into safety. Scrim's story continues to unfold as the search party remains committed to their quest, embodying the spirit of perseverance in a quest to rescue him.