When Alysse Matlock was driving down a quiet rural road near Noble, Oklahoma, she noticed something fluffy walking along the pavement.
As she got closer, she realized it was a miniature Australian Shepherd.
Concerned for the dog’s safety, she pulled over and tried to coax the pup into her car, but the little one didn’t understand her intentions and got scared, running away.
Thankfully, Alysse snapped a photo and posted it on Facebook once she was home, hoping someone might know where this sweet pup came from.
Sure enough, others had spotted her, too!
The Rescue Mission
After posting the picture, Alysse’s comment section was filled with replies from people who had seen the same dog wandering the neighborhood.
But no one knew where she had come from.
A few days later, now named Journey, the pup was spotted in the middle of Noble, 10 miles from where Alysse first encountered her.
With the cold days approaching, many locals were worried about Journey’s safety, knowing she needed shelter to survive.
An additional concern arose when someone noticed her distended belly, revealing that Journey was pregnant and her puppies were due soon!
Hearing this, Alysse went out again, determined to get Journey somewhere safe.
After finally locating her, Alysse spent three hours trying to earn Journey’s trust. But as 1 a.m. approached, and the pup still wouldn’t cooperate, Alysse had no choice but to try again the next day.
A Step Closer to Safety
The next day, Alysse returned and noticed a figure peeking behind a large piece of trash. On closer inspection, she realized it was Journey who had found refuge in a makeshift shelter.
“She’d spent the night curled up in a busted recliner by the side of the highway,” Alyssa shared in a video.
Again, Alysse tried to get the pup into the car, but Journey just wouldn’t cooperate.
Finally, with the help of a few residents, Alysse and the team spotted Journey on top of a hill, sparking an idea.
With teamwork and plenty of hotdogs, the group successfully got the little pup into the car.
“It was such a relief when she was finally caught. We all hugged strangers who had stopped on the side of the road that morning,” Alysse told The Dodo.
A New Beginning
With Journey finally in Alysse’s care, the vet confirmed that the soon-to-be-mom would give birth in just a few days.
The very next morning, Alysse woke up to strange squeaking sounds.
Two tiny pups had been born, with four more following soon after. Journey was now the proud mom of an adorable, healthy litter.
In the warmth and safety of her new home, Journey and her babies were finally able to rest, which was crucial for her recovery.
For now, the family will stay safe, and if no owners come forward, the pups will be available for adoption through Noble Now Inc. Friends of Noble Animal Shelter.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped this sweet Aussie find a safe, loving place to give birth to her beautiful babies.
You all are heroes!