Meet Shirley and Jenny, two elephants who met when they were used as circus elephants — both of whom became crippled as a result of the nightmarish experience. Back in 2000, PBS aired a special documentary on Shirley and Jenny, and filmed their epic reunion 22 years in the making.
As soon as Shirley and Jenny were reunited at The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee, the re-bonding began. Perhaps the most incredible moment occurs around the 3:45 mark. Shirley and Jenny were so determined to get closer that they bent the steel bars that separated them before they could officially embrace! Every caretaker witnessing this powerful moment was touched to tears by the show of love and friendship. I couldn't help but get emotional watching it, too. See for yourself… it's just beautiful. The two spent their days locking trunks in solidarity, playing, and relaxing at their loving new home.
Sadly, Jenny passed away in 2006 from illness, surrounded by Shirley and her caregivers. Sanctuary director Carol Buckley said Jenny's passing was particularly hard on Shirley, who refused to eat for two days following her best friend's death. It's a miracle these two were able to reunite and spend the rest of Jenny's life together again. If this doesn't prove that animals are capable of showing true compassion and pure happiness, nothing will.
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