Cardy, was it you who posted a similar clip a while back, a similar scenario? IIRC, in that instance, two young men had raised a big cat, a lioness, I think it was. Eventually, they had to leave her at a santuary. When they paid a visit some months, the moment of recognition was obvious, she ran to them and was just as clearly happy to see them. Very demonstrative, very affectionate with them.
Yes that was the one - animals have long memories and also many traits such a affection, loyalty, and even hate at times. These things require some sort of analysis and cannot all be instinct driven. I wonder how much we really know about the working of their minds.