His Dog Was Lost for Almost a Decade, But Now He Is Back Home Again
When Paul and his family were moving across the country from Massachusetts to Arizona in 2017, they’d stopped at an Oklahoma rest stop. While there, Damian became frightened, broke free from his leash, and vanished. The family searched without success for Damian until dark that day and for a full week afterward. However, they were renting a moving truck, and Paul’s father told him and his family they had to drive on to their destination—without Paul’s precious pooch.
It Was Devastating to Lose the Dog
Paul shared with ABC News, “It was devastating—that dog got me through a lot of emotional things, family issues, and whatnot, just being there for me as a companion. I was his everything, as he was mine, and losing him was really, really tough.” As the years passed, Paul continued to hope that he’d see Damian again one day, regularly posting Damian’s photo and information on social media pages dedicated to lost pets.
Then, while en route to Los Angeles, California with clothing for wildfire survivors, Paul received a text message through his Apple Watch. The text preview read, “Your dog, Damian, has been found.” Paul was excited but skeptical and feared the text might be a scam.
Fortunately, Donna Bentley of Oklahoma City had found Damian after nearly hitting him when he darted across the road. Wanting to prevent the dog from being run over by other drivers who might not be lucky and able to avoid it, Donna scooped up Damian despite his “screaming” and his attempts to bite her.
They Scanned the Lost Pup at the Vet
Though Damian appeared healthy, if a little rough and ragged, Donna’s brother Rick took the dog to the veterinarian. He asked the veterinarian if they could scan the “little guy” for a microchip, and thankfully, Paul’s information came up!
Paul quickly turned around and headed back east toward Oklahoma City and his long-lost friend! Sixteen hours later, Paul and Damian were reunited. Damian recognized Paul immediately, and the two have picked up where they left off, making up for lost years. While time has taken a toll on Damian’s body, the love between these two friends remains wonderfully intact.
With hope, luck, technology, and, most importantly, the kindness of a couple of strangers, Damian made it back to Paul and will live out his life as he should!
“Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” Luke 12:7
WATCH: His Dog Was Lost for Almost a Decade, But Now He Is Back Home Again
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Originally published February 25, 2025.
