Dedicated Dog Keeps Vigil for Trapped Companion, Braving a Week Until Rescue Arrives
In early September, something unusual happened on Vashon Island, Washington, involving two inseparable companions – Tillie, a golden retriever, and Phoebe, a basset hound. After a leisurely walk, the two dogs failed to return home.
Growing concerned, their owner reached out to the Vashon Island Pet Protectors for assistance. Despite their best efforts, five long days passed without any sign of the beloved pets. Desperate to bring them back, the organization decided to post a lost dog notice on their Facebook page.
Miraculously, a stranger soon responded with a sighting of Tillie on their property. It seemed the loyal canine was deliberately seeking human attention to raise the alarm. Determined to uncover the truth, volunteers from the Vashon Island Pet Protectors wasted no time in investigating the reported location.
As one of the volunteers approached, a heartwarming sight unfolded. Tillie, with eyes fixed on the newcomer, chose not to bound towards them in excitement. Instead, she maintained her position near the edge of a cistern, her head gently pressed against it. It was as if she was trying to convey a message, insisting that the volunteer come closer. And then it became clear why Tillie had insisted on this unusual encounter – her best friend, Phoebe, was trapped down in the cistern. If Tillie had rushed forward, the volunteer might never have discovered Phoebe’s plight. It was an extraordinary display of loyalty and determination, proving the unwavering bond between these two extraordinary dogs.
Remarkably, both dogs were found in relatively good health, having managed to sustain themselves by drinking rainwater. The volunteers breathed a sigh of relief, knowing that their efforts had paid off. Reflecting on the ordeal, one volunteer shared, “We had been searching tirelessly for about a week when we received a call from a compassionate farmer nearby. He had noticed a reddish dog on his property.”
Indeed, had Tillie not shown such unwavering devotion, Phoebe might have remained trapped, alone and unheard. Their story is a testament to the incredible love and loyalty that can exist between animals and the profound impact they can have on our lives.
