Dog’s Miraculous Return: Athena Finds Her Way Home for Christmas Eve

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After a nearly weeklong search, Athena, a 4-year-old German Shepherd and Husky mix, reunited with her Florida family just in time for Christmas Eve — even ringing the doorbell upon her return.

Athena’s adventure began on December 15 when she escaped from her home in Green Cove Springs, Florida, while her family was at church. The family received a message from a neighbor that day, along with a photo of Athena sitting outside the house. Rushing home, they found her collar in her crate and no apparent way she could have escaped, leaving her getaway a complete mystery.

The next several days turned into a whirlwind of hope, heartbreak, and determination for Athena’s owner, Brooke Comer, and her family. Community members from Green Cove Springs and surrounding towns rallied together, responding to missing dog ads and sharing any sightings of Athena. Based on reports, the adventurous pup appeared to have traveled a nearly 20-mile round trip during her time away.

Despite receiving alerts about Athena’s whereabouts, the family always seemed to arrive moments too late. “She was the hide-and-seek all-time grand champion,” Comer joked. “Every sighting gave us hope, but it was heartbreaking to keep missing her.”

For days, Comer worried about Athena’s safety, knowing her dog’s skittish nature and the potential dangers she might face. Then, at 2:30 a.m. on Christmas Eve, everything changed. Comer was awakened by a notification from her Ring doorbell camera, accompanied by the sound of her other dog barking.

“I was in a daze, but when I looked at the video, I saw Athena jumping up and ringing the doorbell,” Comer recalled. She rushed to open the door, and Athena darted inside, immediately greeting Comer’s son, who was half-asleep on the couch. After giving him a flurry of licks, Athena grabbed her favorite ball, played briefly, and then returned to her crate for a well-earned rest.

The family was overwhelmed with gratitude, especially for the neighbors and community members who helped search tirelessly. Comer expressed her relief and joy, saying, “This experience gave us so much hope because of the amazing people who looked out for Athena.”

Athena’s next steps include a full veterinary checkup, flea and tick treatments, and most importantly, getting her microchipped to prevent any future escapades. For now, the family is simply cherishing the miracle of having their beloved pup back home safe and sound.

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