Late this past summer, a small breed mix dog was spotted wandering in a field outside of Clarkston, Washington. Alone and frightened, the little dog had been seen near rural property lines for a couple of days when the property owner sought help. When we shared his photo and story on LC Valley Pets, several community members quickly recognized him.
It turned out that this little dog, named Ray, had escaped during a home visit while he was up for adoption through the Lewis Clark Animal Shelter (LCAS).
Ray’s story began as part of a heartbreaking hoarding case in Albion, Washington, where over 100 dogs were rescued from poor living conditions. Like many dogs from hoarding situations, Ray was undersocialized, fearful, and unsure how to trust people. These dogs often need extra time and patience to adjust to normal life.
When Ray escaped, it wasn’t simply a matter of calling him back. Dogs who have lived in survival mode tend to rely on their instincts rather than human direction. They are quick, cautious, and can be very difficult to catch safely.
These types of cases often require specialized help, and that’s where our amazing volunteer Anna comes in. Anna has earned a reputation in our rescue network for her skill in humanely trapping fearful and stray dogs who are too scared to be approached.
With the cooperation of the property owner where Ray had been seen, Anna set up humane traps and began monitoring the area. Within just a couple of days, Ray was safely trapped and returned to the Lewis Clark Animal Shelter.
Despite his rough beginnings, Ray eventually found his furever home. His journey is a reminder that the fearful and overlooked dogs are often the ones who need us the most, and the ones who shine the brightest once they feel safe.
