Story of Senior Dog Lost by Georgia Veterinarian Comes to a Close

On March 17, when dog mom Hannah Riley was out of the country, the veterinary staff at St. Francis Veterinary Specialists and Emergency in Atlanta, GA lost Riley's 10-year-old Papillon named Hazel. All because they took this precious senior dog outside without a leash.

Since Hazel had gone missing, people all over the world were invested in getting this little dog home with her owner where she belongs. Well, we basically have the best news ever because Hannah just shared the following.

Hazel had accidentally ingested several cannabis gummies at her dog sitter's home, which prompted an emergency visit to the veterinarian's clinic. Someone at the vet clinic decided to take this senior pup outside without a leash, which caused Hazel to run off.

In the days that followed so many people were invested in getting this dog home. A GoFundMe was set up which raised $10,000 in a matter of days. A Google Spreadsheet with a volunteer sign up was created. People posted on Instagram, Facebook, X and TikTok videos and photos all in an attempt to get Hazel home where she belongs.

I can't even imagine how terrified Hannah was, and how over the moon she must be now that her baby is back with her!

I think it's safe to say all of us are having the same reaction!

One person commented, "You take that baby home and give her the time to relax I’m actually crying at work Hannah I’m so happy for you." Another added "I started following you when I saw your initial post about Hazel and I have been hoping against hope you would have this moment with her. I am beyond ecstatic for you!! This has made my week! Sending all of my love to you and Hazel from Florida."

Steps To Take if Your Dog Goes Missing

Losing your dog can be such a scary experience, but the good news is that according to the ASPCA, 93 percent of lost dogs are eventually recovered, and 90 percent of them are found within the first 12 hours.

One thing you can do is have your dog microchipped, so that if they are lost and they end brought to a vet it can be determined that you are the actual owner. Update the information with the microchip company on a regular basis, especially if you move or change phone numbers. Make sure your dog always wears a collar with your name and contact information on it. It's also a good idea to take current photographs of your dog in case they do go missing, and photographs of you with your dog in case you need further proof of ownership.

Contact friends and family immediately, the non-emergency number of your local police department, as well as your veterinarian, your local Humane Society and Animal Shelters, and make postings on social media lost and found groups for your area.

Create flyers with your contact information plus a current photo of your pet and distribute them to local businesses and neighbors. It was so amazing how people from all over the world shared Hazel's information and we can't help but think that played a part in getting her back home.

Related: Heartbreaking Experience of Losing a Pet Is an Important Reminder to Microchip

If your dog has a keen nose, they might be able to sniff their way back to you. Take something that smells like you, such as a worn shirt, a blanket, a toy, or a crate. Leave the items where you last saw your dog.

We are so happy that Hazel is home safe and sound now where she belongs!

Looking for more PetHelpful updates? Follow us on YouTube for more entertaining videos. Or, share your own adorable pet by submitting a video, and sign up for our newsletter for the latest pet updates and tips.