Lost Dog Miraculously Returns Home, Rings Doorbell to Reunite with Family
Athena, a 4-year-old German Shepherd-Husky mix from Green Cove Springs, Florida, amazed her family and community when she returned home after escaping and being missing for nearly a week, ABC News reports.
The adventurous dog even rang the family’s doorbell upon her return early on Christmas Eve, turning a stressful ordeal into a heartwarming holiday miracle.
Athena’s disappearance began on December 15, when her owner, Brooke Comer, and her family left for church. A neighbor later sent Comer a photo of Athena outside the house, but by the time the family returned, she was gone. How Athena managed to escape her securely enclosed home remains unknown.
Comer quickly mobilized the community, sharing missing dog alerts across Green Cove Springs and nearby towns. Over the following days, sightings of Athena were reported, suggesting the dog traveled nearly 20 miles in her wanderings. Despite numerous close calls, Athena eluded capture each time her family rushed to the reported locations.
“She was the hide-and-seek all-time grand champion,” Comer said.
At 2:30 a.m. on Christmas Eve, Comer was awakened by her other dog’s barking and a notification from the family’s Ring doorbell. Checking the footage, she was stunned to see Athena at the door, jumping and pressing the bell with her nose.
“I was in a daze,” Comer said. “But as soon as I saw the video, I knew it was her.”
When Comer opened the door, Athena bolted inside, enthusiastically greeting the family. She immediately went to her crate to rest after grabbing her favorite ball.
The family credited the outpouring of support from neighbors and nearby towns for keeping hope alive during Athena’s disappearance. The experience underscored the importance of microchipping pets, which is now a priority for Athena. Plans are also underway to ensure Athena receives a thorough health check and updated preventive care.
“It was a terrifying experience, but the kindness and help from everyone gave us hope,” Comer said.
Athena’s remarkable journey and resourceful return brought a joyful ending to a challenging week, reminding everyone of the strong bond between pets and their families.
