Winston Is Home For Thanksgiving - Reunited 11/26/25

Anakin’s Trails was contacted about a dog named Winston who had gotten away from his pet sitter and gone missing. A longtime supporter of our organization helped connect the owner with our team so we could step in and assist.

By the time we spoke with Winston’s owner, he had already been missing for five days. The owner had been searching the neighborhood and learned that someone had recently seen Winston in a nearby yard. Food was placed in the backyard where Winston had been roaming in hopes of drawing him back.

A camera was set up to monitor the area, and the owner was given guidance on baiting and scenting to help bring Winston close enough to be recovered.

Heavy rain over the next two days slowed progress, as dogs often hide during bad weather. Once the rain finally stopped, Winston appeared on camera the day before Thanksgiving—hungry, but alive and moving.

When the owner tried to approach him, Winston became frightened and ran, a common behavior known as “lost dog syndrome.” At that point, a trap became the safest option.

Volunteers Beth and another team member traveled to Piedmont with a box trap, set it up, and carefully baited it. About six hours later, Winston walked into the trap and was safely secured.

Winston was reunited with his family just in time to be home for Thanksgiving.

Anakin’s Trails is a stray and pet recovery organization. We help locate, trap, and recover animals so pets can be reunited with their families and strays can find a new, forever home.

No more roaming the swamps, Winston. You’re going home. ❤️ 🐾