Missing Dog Returns Home On Christmas Eve, Rings Doorbell At 2 A.M.

December 28, 2024

Today's good news story comes from Green Cove Springs, Florida.

A family received the ultimate Christmas gift when their beloved dog, Athena, returned home on Christmas Eve after being missing for nine days. The 4-year-old German Shepherd and Husky mix had escaped her home on December 15, sparking a wide community search.

missing dog returns Christmas eve
Brooke Comer / AP

The adventure began while Athena's family, the Comers, were at church. Brooke Comer, Athena’s owner, received a picture from a neighbor showing Athena outside the house. Despite the photo, how Athena managed to escape remains a mystery.

For the next week, Brooke and her family launched a full-scale search, hanging posters around town and enlisting the help of their neighbors and even people in nearby towns. Athena left her mark on several security cameras and prompted numerous sightings, suggesting she had traveled an impressive 20-mile loop during her time away.

"With every sighting, my heart jumped," Brooke shared. "It was excitement, but then your heart’s crushed because we were always one step behind."

Just when hope was beginning to waver, Athena made her dramatic return. At 2:30 a.m. on Christmas Eve, Brooke’s phone buzzed with a Ring doorbell notification. She checked the camera and was overjoyed to see Athena standing at the door.

The reunion was filled with relief and gratitude. Brooke credited the community for their unwavering support and kindness throughout the ordeal.

Watch the video below.