The Elusive Underdog: Scrim’s Journey from Survival to Legend
Scrim, a small, scrappy dog with a big personality, became a beloved and mysterious figure in New Orleans after a series of daring escapes and narrow survivals. Weighing just 17 pounds and sporting coarse, cloudy fur, Scrim’s resilience and cunning turned him into a local legend. His story began at an overcrowded shelter where he was scheduled to be euthanized, but fate stepped in when Michelle Cheramie, founder of Zeus’s Place, rescued him. What followed was a saga of escapes, close calls, and futile attempts to capture him, all while he captured the hearts of many.
Scrim’s journey was far from easy. He was shot with a pellet gun, broke his teeth, and lost part of his ear, yet he kept running. His escapes became the stuff of folklore, with sightings reported all over the city—from the Superdome to the Audubon Zoo, and even as far as the suburb of Harahan. People marveled at his ability to evade capture, dodging cars and squeezing through tiny spaces. To some, he was a symbol of freedom, a renegade who chose the wild over the comforts of domestic life. To others, he was a mechanical wonder, seemingly always one step ahead of his pursuers.
As Scrim’s fame grew, so did his cultural impact. Murals popped up around the city, tattoo designs were inspired by his story, and he even became the star of a Mardi Gras house float, portrayed as a saint on a prayer candle. Yet, for the small team of volunteers determined to bring him to safety, Scrim was more than a legend—he was a traumatized dog in need of care and protection.
The Dedicated Search Team: A Mission Born of Compassion
Michelle Cheramie and her team of volunteers were undeterred by Scrim’s elusive nature. They scoured the city, posting fliers, checking leads, and crawling under houses in hopes of finding him. Each tip brought a mix of excitement and dread, as they feared the worst with every passing day. For months, they worked tirelessly, often going to great lengths to track him down. Cheramie even practiced with a tranquilizer gun, honing her skills in case she finally got close enough to use it.
The team’s efforts were not just about Scrim; they also revealed a deeper need to help other lost and abandoned animals in the city. As they searched for Scrim, they rescued dozens of other dogs and cats, and even checked in on people living on the streets, offering food and support. “It opened my eyes,” said volunteer Barbara Burger, reflecting on the broader impact of their mission. The search for Scrim became a catalyst for community service and compassion.
Despite their dedication, Scrim continued to evade them. He dodged traps baited with fried chicken and beef, seemingly outsmarting every strategy they devised. His ability to navigate the city’s one-way streets and use them to his advantage left the team in awe. “If he ran against traffic, it would be harder for pursuers in cars to reach him,” Burger speculated. Her own attempt to chase him with a motorized scooter ended in defeat, as Scrim easily outran the scooter’s 15 mph limit.
As time went on, the team’s hopes of finding Scrim alive began to dim. He endured fireworks on New Year’s Eve, the chaos of Super Bowl celebrations, and even a rare blizzard that paralyzed the city. Yet, Scrim’s determination to keep going mirrored the spirit of New Orleans itself—a city that had faced its own share of hardships and bounced back.
The Final Capture: A Bittersweet Ending
After months of searching, Scrim’s journey finally came to an end in early 2024 when he was found in a trap set for feral cats. Michelle Cheramie received a text message with a photo of Scrim squeezed into the trap, and within days, he was safely back at her home, calm and seemingly unfazed by the commotion he had caused.
The team’s relief was palpable. For months, they had been on high alert, responding to every tip, no matter how small. Cheramie had even carried a second cellphone dedicated to Scrim-related updates. Now, with Scrim safe and sound, the team could finally exhale. They gathered at Cheramie’s house to share stories and celebrate with pizza, their bond stronger than ever.
But even as Scrim settled into his new life, there were hints that his love of freedom might never truly fade. Cheramie admitted to still obsessively checking her doors, windows, and gates, just in case. Burger speculated that Scrim might still be plotting his next escape, waiting for the perfect moment to bolt again. Whether or not he ever does, Scrim’s legacy as a symbol of resilience and determination is secure.
Scrim as a Symbol: Representing New Orleans’ Spirit
Scrim’s story transcends that of a lost dog; he became a living, breathing symbol of New Orleans’ indomitable spirit. Like the city itself, Scrim faced unimaginable challenges—abuse, neglect, and constant danger—and yet he kept going. His refusal to give up resonated deeply with residents, many of whom saw in him a mirror of their own resilience in the face of hurricanes, economic struggles, and social injustices.
To some, Scrim represented a romantic ideal of freedom, a rejection of the constraints of modern life. He was a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is always a way forward. For others, he was a beloved underdog whose survival against the odds inspired hope. Tattoo designs, murals, and even a Mardi Gras float ensured that Scrim’s story would live on, even if he eventually settled into a quiet life.
Scrim’s Impact: Beyond the Search
While Scrim’s escapes kept the city captivated, the search for him also brought people together. Volunteers like David Brown, Bonnie Goodson, and Tammy Murray formed a tight-knit community, united by their mission to help a dog in need. Their efforts expanded beyond Scrim, leading to the rescue of dozens of other animals and acts of kindness for people on the streets.
The search for Scrim also highlighted the broader issue of animal welfare in New Orleans. During the pandemic, many dogs adopted for companionship were later abandoned, overwhelming shelters like the one where Scrim was first rescued. Organizations like Zeus’s Place played a crucial role in mitigating this crisis, but the problem remains.
Scrim’s journey also sparked a debate about whether he should have been caught or allowed to roam free. While some argued that he deserved the freedom he had fought so hard to maintain, others believed he needed the safety and stability of a loving home. Regardless of where one stood, Scrim’s story was a reminder of the deep bond between humans and animals—and the lengths to which people will go to protect those they care about.
The Legacy of Scrim: A Tale of Hope and Freedom
Scrim’s story may have reached its final chapter with his capture, but his impact on New Orleans will endure. He reminded a city of its own strength and resilience, proving that even in the darkest moments, there is always a way forward. For the volunteers who dedicated themselves to his search, Scrim’s journey reinforced the power of compassion and community.
As Scrim settles into his new life with Cheramie, the legend of his escapes and resilience will continue to inspire. Whether he ever tries to run again or not, Scrim has already cemented his place in the hearts of New Orleanians. He is more than just a dog—he’s a symbol of hope, freedom, and the unbreakable spirit of a city that never gives up.
