Velvet - Reunited 1/12/25

Every now and then, someone crosses our path who loves animals as fiercely as we do. For us, that person was Leslie—a devoted animal lover who became a key player in helping rescue not one, but two dogs in the Seneca area. First Toto, and now Velvet, a beautiful Chesapeake Bay Retriever mix who had no idea just how much love and determination surrounded her.

Velvet’s story began at the Oconee Humane Society, where she had lived since she was a puppy. She was the last of her litter to be adopted—a sweet but anxious pup who struggled to regulate her emotions. Dogs like Velvet don’t choose to be skittish; it’s simply how they’re wired. Without medication or treatment, they live with constant anxiety, always on edge.

When winter weather threatened the area, the humane society worked to get as many dogs as possible into foster homes. Velvet was among those sent to safety. But transitioning from a shelter to a new environment can be overwhelming for an anxious dog. As her foster returned from a walk, something spooked Velvet, and she bolted into the Oconee County woods.

With freezing temperatures, ice, and snow on the horizon, everyone feared the worst.

The storm came and went, and everyone anxiously awaited any sign that Velvet had made it through. Then, as the sun broke through the clouds, so did Velvet—her pretty brown head popping up in various spots throughout the neighborhood.

That’s when Leslie jumped into action.

Having already helped us rescue Toto, Leslie was well-versed in the tactics of lost dog recovery. She knew what needed to be done, and with me coaching her step by step, she led the charge. She gathered the fosters, volunteers, and the shelter director into a group text to coordinate efforts. From there, she got the most recent sighting and set up a highly baited food station in a spot where Velvet would feel safe.

Within hours, Velvet was on camera, eating her first proper meal since she ran.

The trap was set.

But as evening came and went without Velvet returning, hope started to waver. I reassured the team—Velvet was full from her meal and likely resting, but she would be back. To ensure she became comfortable with the trap, I instructed Leslie to place food and water just outside the trap door and leave it closed overnight.

And sure enough, Velvet returned.

She spent over an hour hanging around the trap, showing no fear of it. This was a good sign. Velvet was getting used to the idea, and we knew it was just a matter of time before she walked inside.

The next morning, with temperatures still low, Velvet made a late appearance. The volunteers and shelter staff were waiting anxiously for news. I watched the camera feed, hopeful.

And there she was.

A brown, fluffy figure trotting down the hill, heading straight for breakfast. Without hesitation, Velvet walked into the trap and out of the cold.

The moment she was secured, volunteers rushed to greet her. It was a heartwarming reunion as they watched this anxious, scared dog finally find safety.

Velvet’s time in the Oconee County woods was over. She was no longer a flight risk, no longer wandering through the snow-covered landscape searching for comfort. She was home—ready to start a new chapter with a family who would love her just as fiercely as we did.

No more prancing through the woods, Velvet. You’re safe now, with warm beds and furry friends waiting to welcome you.

A huge thanks to Leslie, Dana, and all the volunteers who made this rescue possible. Your dedication saved another life, and we couldn’t be more grateful. 💙🐾