Zoey escaped on Christmas Eve while visiting family in Wall, New Jersey, instantly turning what should have been a joyful holiday into a race against time.
Zoey is a Sato from Puerto Rico, a survivor who had already endured more than most. Prior to coming north, she lived on the streets of Puerto Rico for at least five months that we know, evading danger daily before she was finally humanely trapped and brought to our friends at The Sato Project. From there, she found her way into the loving arms of her family until fear and unfamiliar surroundings caused her to bolt.
Zoey’s history added a critical layer of complexity to this case. Because she had been previously trapped, she was now considered trap-savvy, a dog who recognizes trapping equipment and understands exactly what a trap is. Dogs with this experience are often far more cautious, making a second successful trapping significantly more difficult. Knowing this, we adjusted our strategy immediately, understanding that patience, precision, and the right conditions especially the opportunity for Zoey to see her mom in daylight would be essential to bringing her home safely.
With the sightings we received, patterns began to emerge. Zoey was following a stream that backed up to wooded properties. Feeding stations and cameras were set along her travel path. Then came a concerning call Zoey had been seen last night crossing back and forth along a highway exit ramp, cutting directly through those same woods. Paw prints were visible across the ramp and down into a ravine. Additional cameras and feeding stations were placed, but Zoey continued moving.
We knew the best chance for success would be Zoey seeing her mom in daylight.
Today, while posters were being hung, a man noticed one that had just gone up and immediately called the number. Zoey had been spotted in his yard, eating bread he had tossed out for the birds. Zoey’s mom raced over only to learn Zoey had already moved into a neighboring yard. Moments later, Zoey was spotted again.
And then, the moment everyone had been waiting for.
Zoey saw her mom.
And Zoey ran straight into her arms.
Throughout this case, the pressure placed on Zoey’s family to hire drone services was overwhelming and unnecessary. Not every lost dog requires a drone, and the constant insistence that they do needs to stop. This situation was being handled thoughtfully, strategically, and with Zoey’s safety at the center of every decision.
We spent our entire Christmas working to bring Zoey home and if there is one rescue we would choose to work alongside every single time, it would be The Sato Project. They stand unwaveringly behind their dogs, remaining present, available, and supportive both on the ground and over the phone. They are simply the best.
A heartfelt thank you to Luann and Alessandra of The Sato Project for spending your Christmas with us, and to Zoey’s parents working around the clock. Jill and Nick your perseverance, trust, and dedication to your girl never wavered.
We could not be more relieved.
We could not be more grateful.
Welcome home, Zoey.
