When a beloved pet goes missing, it leaves a gaping hole in the hearts of their family members. The anticipation and worry are even more profound when the pet is elderly and visually impaired, just like 12-year-old Labrador Sage. Living close to a forest in Boulder Creek, California, Sage’s disappearance filled her family with dread, fearing she wouldn’t stand a chance alone in the wild.
Her family and neighbours scoured the nearby area, their search extending late into the night. The initial search party included ten neighbours who were moved by the family’s plight and returned for several days to aid in the search. However, as the days ticked by, hope began to dwindle.
Despite their sinking spirits, Sage’s family refused to abandon their quest. Five agonizing days turned into six, seven, and then eight. The fear that Sage had fallen victim to a predatory animal haunted them.
By a stroke of luck, a neighbour and local firefighter, Dan Estrada, was walking his dogs when he spotted something unusual by the creek at the bottom of a steep slope. Initially mistaking it for a discarded trash bag, frustration gave way to shock when he realized it was Sage.
Dan’s heart sank as he noticed Sage’s stillness. Sage lifted her head as he and his friend approached her, prompting Dan’s friend to declare, “Dude, she’s alive excitedly.”
Dan sprang into action when he heard this, descending the steep slope to reach Sage. “I climbed quickly, jumped into the stream, and rushed over to her,” Dan recalled. “I hugged her, kissed her, and stroked her. She managed to lift her head and wag her tail.”
Sage also recognized Dan’s dogs, Barnabas and Köelsch, and their presence lifted her spirits. “I think she was happier to see Barnabas and Köelsch than she was to see me,” Dan quipped.
Sage tried to stand and walk, but her week without food had left her weak. So, Dan picked her up and carried her home. On their way back, they informed Sage’s family, who were overjoyed to hear the news.
Tears flowed freely at the emotional reunion. The family had offered a $1,000 reward for Sage’s safe return, but Dan declined, suggesting that the money be donated to an animal rescue organization instead.
Animals have an uncanny ability to teach us invaluable lessons, and Sage was no different. Despite the odds, she persevered and survived, inspiring all who heard her tale.
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