Dog Escapes, Travels 20 Miles, and Rings Doorbell to Return Home for Christmas

Green Cove Springs, Florida – In what can only be described as a heartwarming Christmas miracle, Athena, a 4-year-old German Shepherd and Husky mix, reunited with her family after a harrowing weeklong adventure that saw her travel nearly 20 miles before finding her way back home on Christmas Eve.

December 15 saw Athena successfully escaping from her home leaving her owner, Brooke Comer, and her family into shock. The family left for church on that day but got a message from the neighbor indicating that Athena was in the backyard. Upon rushing back, they found the collar within her crate, but they could not find any breakage or indication of her escape.

Thus began an intensive and emotional search involving neighbours, local communities, and nearby towns. Sighting alerts prompted by missing dog news poured in from various locations suggesting she had undertaken some impressive 20-mile journey.

Despite the frequent sightings and community support, Athena always managed to slip away from capture. “She was the hide-and-seek all-time grand champion,” Comer said. “Every sighting gave us hope, but our hearts would break when we realized we were just one step behind her.”

All was said and done as days rolled by, but everything would change in the early hours of Christmas Eve. At 2:30 a.m., Comer woke to her other dog barking at that moment, coupled with an alert on the family’s Ring doorbell. What she would see next would leave her stunned: Athena, leaping at the door, pulling the bell to come in.

Comer rushed to open the door and Athena darted in and immediately headed to lick her son’s face, who was half-asleep on the couch. True to her playful nature, Athena picked up her ball and then settled back into her crate as if nothing had happened.

It was a heartwarming reunion that testified to the power of community and resilience. “The support we received from neighbors and strangers alike gave us so much hope,” Comer shared.

Athena’s next adventure won’t include any more escapades, as Comer plans on getting her a full check-up, flea and tick treatments, and a microchip. “She’s home safe now, and that’s the best Christmas gift we could have ever asked for,” Comer said.

The incredible journey taken by Athena reminds one to appreciate the bond between people and their pets, as well as the miracles that pop up when least expected, especially during the holidays.