In a heartwarming story of instinct and intelligence, a dog shows remarkable determination after a car accident in Michigan by making the one-mile journey from the crash site to its daycare in search of help. The dog, Aries, a pit bull mix, navigated his way to Hounds Town Metro Detroit, where he spent many days in the care of friendly staff and other canine companions.
The rare incident took place on Saturday afternoon and was captured on video when Aries entered the daycare facility, much to the surprise and relief of the staff there.
Image/Story Source Credit: NBC News Chicago via YouTube Video
Travis Ogden, the owner of Hounds Town Metro Detroit, recounted when he saw Aries approaching from a distance.
“I recognized him from afar, thinking, ‘He looks like Aries.’ As he got closer, it became clear, ‘It’s really Aries!’” she told People magazine.
The reunion was emotional, as Aries greeted Ogden with love, showering him with kisses and even rolling over for a belly kiss, a gesture that showed his trust and concern for her.
The backstory of Aries’ journey to daycare begins shortly after a minor traffic collision. Melissa Fickel, Aries’ owner, was driving with Aries when the accident occurred. Although the accident caused only minor damage to the vehicle and no occupants were injured, it scared Aries. In his panic, he escapes through an open window and flees the scene, prompting Fickel’s frantic search for his beloved pet.
Image/Story Source Credit: NBC News Chicago via YouTube Video
Aries’ remarkable decision to seek refuge in the daycare, a place associated with safety and care, underscores his intelligence and the strong bonds he forms with the people there. Ogden, upon realizing the situation, immediately contacted Fickel, who adopted Aries in 2020, to let her know that her dog was safe and sound.
Fickel’s relief at knowing Aries’ whereabouts was immense. He is anxiously searching for Aries, fearing for his safety. Ogden’s phone call not only put an end to his worries but also highlighted Aries’ incredible sense of direction and his ability to remember and find a place of comfort and security in a moment of distress.
Credit/Story Source Credit: NBC News Chicago via YouTube Video
“She’s incredibly intelligent. Knowing her safe haven, she went straight to daycare amid the chaos of the accident,” Ogden told People magazine.
The reunion of Aries and his owner is a touching moment, emphasizing the deep bond between people and their pets. Aries’ journey serves as a testament to the resilience and intelligence of dogs, and his safe return to daycare is a bright spot after such a disturbing event.
Click the video below to watch this incredible story!