JD - Reunited 1/11/25

✔️✔️ WE GOT JD!! ✔️✔️

There’s something especially terrifying about a lost dog running with a leash still attached. The leash—a simple symbol of safety and connection—suddenly becomes a source of danger. You can’t help but imagine all the things it could get snagged on or tangled with. That’s exactly what happened with JD, a newly adopted pup who got spooked during a walk and bolted, dragging his leash behind him.

Julia, a concerned community member, contacted Anakin’s Trails for help after hearing about JD’s escape. His former fosters immediately joined the search. Sightings of JD started coming in, but the sight of a dog with a leash dragging behind him was frightening for everyone involved. It made him stand out, but it also underscored how vulnerable he was.

Though scared and skittish, JD never wandered too far from familiar territory. The railroad tracks behind his former foster’s house became his pathway, with the foster home serving as a midpoint in his journey. He was surviving, but he was still very much on the run.

One of JD’s former fosters—a dedicated highway patrol officer—along with his wife, took on the mission with complete dedication. They were determined to bring JD home safely. In rain, sleet, and even snow, they drove an hour to pick up one of our box traps, knowing that the Anakin Missy trap couldn’t be set due to the harsh weather conditions. Despite the freezing temperatures, they worked diligently to set the box trap, hoping JD would be hungry enough to take the bait.

That night, JD showed up near the trap but wasn’t interested in food—his belly was full from earlier that day. He retreated to his den for the night, leaving everyone anxious for what the next day would bring.

Worried that JD might be too tall for the box trap, our team prepared to head out to set the larger Anakin Missy trap. But our highway patrol hero was already one step ahead. Bright and early the next morning, he reset the box trap, baited it well, and waited.

Just a few hours later, JD returned—this time hungry and ready for breakfast. Without hesitation, he ducked his head under the trap’s door and walked right in. The size of the trap didn’t bother him one bit. JD was finally safe.

This rescue is a testament to the power of community and commitment. In the coldest conditions, with snow falling and hope wavering, JD’s former fosters never gave up on him.

No more traveling the railroad tracks, JD. You made it through the storm, and your reward is a warm bed and loving arms to keep you safe. Welcome home, sweet boy. 🐾❤️