Story of Senior Dog Lost by Georgia Veterinarian Comes to a Close
Hannah Riley loves her dog Hazel deeply — and that love sparked a global outpouring of support when the 10-year-old Papillon went missing during an emergency veterinary visit.
On March 17, while Hannah was traveling overseas, Hazel had accidentally ingested several cannabis gummies at her dog sitter’s home. This prompted an urgent trip to St. Francis Veterinary Specialists and Emergency in Atlanta, GA. Tragically, a staff member took Hazel outside without a leash — and the senior dog bolted.
What followed was extraordinary: people across the U.S. and around the world rallied to bring Hazel home. A GoFundMe campaign raised $10,000 in just days. Volunteers organized via a shared Google Spreadsheet. Posts flooded Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok — each photo, video, and story amplifying Hazel’s name and face.
The emotional weight of the situation was palpable. One commenter wrote, “You take that baby home and give her the time to relax — I’m actually crying at work, Hannah. I’m so happy for you.” Another shared, “I started following you when I saw your initial post about Hazel and have been hoping against hope you’d have this moment with her. I am beyond ecstatic for you!! This has made my week! Sending all of my love to you and Hazel from Florida.”
Steps to Take If Your Dog Goes Missing
Losing a dog is terrifying — but there’s real hope. According to the ASPCA, 93% of lost dogs are eventually recovered, and 90% are found within the first 12 hours.
Here’s what experts recommend:
- Microchip your dog — and keep the registration updated with your current address and phone number. Many clinics and shelters scan for chips immediately upon intake.
- Use visible ID — ensure your dog always wears a collar with your name and contact information.
- Keep current photos on hand — including recent shots of your dog alone and with you, in case ownership verification is needed.
- Act fast — notify friends, family, your veterinarian, local humane societies, animal shelters, and non-emergency police right away.
- Spread the word online — post in local lost-and-found pet groups on social media platforms like Facebook and FurPetVo.com.
- Create and distribute flyers — include a clear, recent photo and your contact info, and share them with neighbors and local businesses.
Hazel’s safe return is a powerful reminder of how vital these steps are — and how community action can change outcomes. Her story also underscores why microchipping remains one of the most reliable safeguards for senior or anxious pets who may be more easily startled in unfamiliar settings.
If your dog has a strong sense of smell, consider leaving familiar scented items — like a worn shirt, favorite blanket, or crate — near where she was last seen. These comforting cues may help guide her back.
A Heartfelt Homecoming
Hannah recently confirmed the joyful news: Hazel is home safe and sound — resting, recovering, and surrounded by love.
We’re overjoyed that this chapter has ended with reunion and healing — and we hope Hazel’s story inspires every pet parent to take proactive, loving steps to protect their furry family members.
