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Hiking Holiday Leads to Dog Adoption

A couple from Colorado were on a hiking trip in Montenegro when they encountered a stray, starving dog. Shaylin and her husband were hiking through Durmitor National Park in 2016 when the dog, now named Cara, appeared on their trail. Despite being “very scared and shy,” the couple fed the emaciated pup their leftover pizza, and she immediately warmed up to them.

An Unexpected Companion

Over the next three days, the dog followed the couple for 25 miles through the park, sleeping outside their tent each night. A few times she disappeared, only to find them again. The couple decided they couldn’t leave the dog behind, worried she wouldn’t survive the approaching winter on her own.

A New Life in Colorado

The couple brought Cara back with them, first stopping in Sarajevo to get her vaccines and a “pet passport.” Once home in Colorado, Cara became part of their family. She gained weight, going from 26 to 42 pounds, and even served as the ring bearer at the couple’s wedding. Now 9 years old, Cara is the “gentlest and happiest dog” the couple has ever had, especially adoring their twin daughters.

The story highlights the unfortunate reality that millions of pets end up in shelters each year. According to the ASPCA, an average of 17,260 pets enter shelters daily in the U.S. Many are surrendered due to issues like behavior, cost, or owners moving. Sadly, around 920,000 of these animals are euthanized annually. But heartwarming stories like Cara’s show the joy rescue dogs can bring to a family.