Ernie the cockatiel shares a heartfelt reunion with dog Lottie after storm separation

Parrot Reunites with Beloved Family Dog After Stormy Disappearance
Ernie the cockatiel shares a heartfelt reunion with dog Lottie after storm separation
Lifestyle

A pet cockatiel named Ernie, known for his love of singing, has joyfully reunited with his owner and his best friend—Lottie, the family dog—after vanishing during stormy weather in Greater Manchester. Upon his return, Ernie’s first instinct was to shower Lottie with affection, rekindling their deep bond.

Owner Alison Roberts described the reunion as a miracle: “I was devastated when Ernie disappeared. I feared we’d never see him again. Having him back with Lottie is amazing.” Ernie, who went missing from their home in Great Lever, Bolton, last November, survived in the wild before a passerby found him near a bench in Kearsley.

Over Christmas and New Year’s, Ernie was cared for by an RSPCA foster carer, who captured the bird singing his favourite tune—If You’re Happy and You Know It, Clap Your Hands—on video. Alison recognised her pet from the clip on social media, allowing the RSPCA to facilitate their reunion.

The bond between Ernie and Lottie quickly picked up where it left off. “The moment he saw her, he reacted instantly,” said Alison. “I let him out, and he was perched on her back, riding around like before. It’s like they’ve never been apart.”

Reflecting on Ernie’s disappearance, Alison recounted how he had been perched on Lottie’s back when the dog went outside one stormy night. Ernie’s sudden absence led to days of searching and nights of calling out in hope. “When I saw the video online, I knew it was him right away,” she said.

Alison even bought a new cage for Ernie, having discarded the old one out of heartbreak. “He’s incredibly affectionate and very much a part of the family,” she shared. “It’s our first experience with a pet bird, and Ernie’s personality has been a joy. I’m deeply grateful to the RSPCA and the kind person who found him.”