In a heartwarming turn of events, Athena, a German Shepherd from Green Cove Springs, Florida, made her triumphant return home on Christmas Eve after disappearing nearly two weeks earlier. The 4-year-old dog had gone missing on December 15, sparking a week-long search that left her family worried she might not make it back in time for the holidays.
But in a Christmas miracle, Athena was captured on the family’s Ring doorbell camera around 2:30 a.m. on Christmas Eve, pawing at the door and ringing the doorbell. “I woke up to the sound of her ringing the doorbell, and when I checked the camera, there she was,” said Athena’s owner, Brooke Comer, in an interview with WJAX.
Comer, overwhelmed with joy and relief after days of searching, tried to keep the surprise a secret from her children until later in the day. However, the kids woke up early, filled with excitement upon hearing the good news. “They were thrilled. It was the best Christmas gift we could have asked for,” Comer added.
The community’s support played a crucial role in Athena’s safe return. Neighbors, along with dog lovers from nearby Jacksonville and Saint Augustine, had been combing through their own doorbell camera footage and offering help during the search. “People were sending us tips, and we are so grateful for all the support,” Comer told WFOX.
While Athena appears to be in good health after her nine-day adventure, Comer noted a new behavior: “She hasn’t stopped whining or howling since she’s been back. It’s like she’s found her voice,” she said.
The heartwarming footage of Athena ringing the doorbell to be let in was shared widely, adding to the Christmas cheer for all who witnessed it. As a precaution, Comer plans to have Athena microchipped and spayed in the New Year to prevent any future escapes.
This Christmas reunion proves that sometimes, the best gifts come in the most unexpected ways.