After three long days, little Chewy lost in Glen Ridge, NJ is finally home safe.
Chewy, a puppy mill survivor, had just flown home with his new dad when fear took over upon arrival. Spooked by the unfamiliar surroundings, he bolted, leash still attached and disappeared into the neighborhood.
From the moment I connected with his family, we hit the ground running. Hundreds of posters blanketed the area, feeding stations were set, and cameras were placed strategically to track his movements. But Chewy proved to be an elusive little soul.
Early this morning, we made a heartfelt plea to the community: please, quietly check your properties. It was possible that Chewy had become snagged on his leash and couldn’t free himself. Within just a few hours, the call came. Chewy had been spotted two streets away, hiding behind a shed.
Guiding his mom, Lauren, I asked her to move slowly and quietly toward the area, a bag of hot dogs in hand. She didn’t see him but caught sight of the leash, he was not snagged and we had to be extremely careful not to spook him away… this was our chance!! Following my instruction, she quickly and calmly reached for the leash and to our immense relief, was able to grab hold without startling him.
Chewy, uncertain and frightened, gave a small growl, but as Lauren gently tossed bits of hot dog toward him, he slowly let his guard down. With patience and love, she stayed by his side, softly reassuring him until her husband, Mike, arrived with the carrier. Together, they carefully secured their little guy and brought him safely home.
Every case is different. While some dogs dragging a leash may get caught, many are surprisingly capable of maneuvering through even the thickest woods and most tangled terrain without getting hung up. Each dog, each situation, is unique and that’s why patience, strategy, and hope are so essential.
Through it all, Chewy’s family remained steadfast. They endured countless spam calls, misinformation, and heartbreaking moments of uncertainty, yet they never gave up. This family’s devotion was nothing short of extraordinary. Lauren and Mike, your unwavering strength, patience, and love carried you through every emotional moment of this journey. You never gave up and because of that, Chewy is home, safe, cherished, and already settling beautifully into his new life.
Chewy’s story is a powerful reminder: never lose hope. Miracles happen even for the smallest, most frightened souls.
Welcome HOME Chewy!
