Missing Toddler Found Sleeping On Top Of Dog In The Woods

September 23, 2023

A toddler who wandered away from her family home in Michigan's Upper Peninsula was found sleeping in the woods with her family pets.

Stock photo / Jon Pauling from Pixabay

After a search that involved state police, drones, police dogs, and a joint effort from local law enforcement and concerned citizens from Michigan and neighboring Wisconsin, the child was eventually discovered in the woods peacefully asleep on one of the dogs, using the furry companion as a makeshift pillow, while the other dog dutifully watched over her.

"She laid down and used one of the dogs as a pillow, and the other dog laid right next to her and kept her safe," Lt. Mark Giannunzio said Thursday. "It's a really remarkable story."

The incident began when troopers from the Michigan State Police's Iron Mountain post responded to a call at a residence in the Faithorn area of Menominee County around 8 p.m. on Wednesday. The toddler had wandered away from home, prompting an urgent search effort in the remote wooded region.

Despite the late hours and challenging terrain, the search persisted, with troopers utilizing drones and trained police dogs. Local police and concerned residents from both Michigan and neighboring Wisconsin joined forces in the mission to locate the missing child.

Around midnight, a citizen on an ATV made a pivotal discovery approximately 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) from the girl's home, reuniting her with her family. The diligent search efforts had paid off, and the little girl was found unharmed and in good health.

Faithorn, an unincorporated village situated just east of the Wisconsin state line, lies approximately 60 miles (97 kilometers) southwest of Marquette, Michigan. This incident served as a powerful reminder of the incredible bond between humans and their animal companions, as well as the strength of community when faced with adversity.