Athena, the dog is back, and her family couldn’t be happier with this wonderful surprise.
A German shepherd dog went missing from her home in Green Cove Springs, Florida, on December 15, as reported by First Coast News. After more than a week of searching for their beloved dog, Athena’s family started to worry that their furry friend might not make it back in time for the festive season.
In a truly magical turn of events, Athena made her way back home on Christmas Eve, and the touching reunion was beautifully captured on film. The dog made her way back home solo, approached the door, and rang the doorbell, activating the family’s doorbell camera.
“It was about 2:30 a.m. when she was ringing on the doorbell and pawing on the door. This was Christmas Eve morning. I woke up from it and saw her on the Ring camera,” Brooke Comer, Athena’s owner, told WJAX.
Comer felt a wave of excitement and relief wash over her as she welcomed Athena back home after nine long days filled with intense searches and emotional turmoil from her children. The mother mentioned that, given the early hour, she attempted to keep the pet’s return under wraps until later, but the children stirred awake “from the excitement.”
The community expressed their joy upon the dog’s safe return home. Comer shared with WJAX that her neighbors dedicated hours to reviewing their doorbell camera footage in search of the dog. Canine enthusiasts from Jacksonville to Saint Augustine contacted Comer with suggestions and assistance in the quest for Athena, according to WFOX.
Athena appears to be in good health after her nine-day absence from home, though Comer has observed a notable change in the dog.
“She has not stopped whining or howling since she’s come home. She’s definitely found her voice now,” Comer said.
Video of Athena’s homecoming captures the 4-year-old dog eagerly jumping up to paw at the door and ring the doorbell. Moments later, a person from within the home swings the door open and joyfully welcomes the furry friend.
Athena’s family is set to microchip and spay the dog in the upcoming year to avoid any future incidents of her going missing.