A family’s worry quickly turned to awe when their lost Beagle came home with a ribbon from a dog show.
Bonnie, a five-year-old Beagle mix, escaped from her home in West Sussex, England, through an open gate early one Sunday morning. A search party scoured the neighborhood. Bonnie’s family called the police, veterinarians, and animal shelters hoping to find her. Meanwhile, a man spotted the missing canine by the side of the road.
Thus, Bonnie’s legacy was born.
Bonnie Wins Big
Coincidentally, John Wilmer was on his way to a dog show with two of his own dogs when he found Bonnie.
In a rush, Wilmer scooped her up and brought her along to the show. He posted her photo on Facebook — a call-out for Bonnie’s parents to get in touch. Bonnie’s mom, Paula Closier, saw the post. She immediately contacted Wilmer and arranged for her to come home after the show. Wilmer entered Bonnie in the rescue dog class. He told the BBC, “She was such a lovely dog, I thought it’d be good to enter her.”
Bonnie, who came to the Cosier family four years ago after being rescued off of the streets of Crete, Greece, was awarded the third place spot. She came home with a bright yellow ribbon. Bonnie’s mom said of the incident, “We’re so thrilled she’s safe and well and also a winner. You couldn’t make this stuff up.”
Closier continued, “She’s had such a full life. When John brought her back to us with a rosette we couldn’t believe it. It’s a shame she didn’t come first in the show.”
Since the ordeal, Closier made Bonnie an Instagram page for those who want to see the winning pooch themselves.
How to Stop Your Dog from Escaping
Bonnie the Beagle isn’t the only pup who likes to go for a walk alone. Some dog breeds — like hounds — are more prone to escaping than others. Does this sound like your pup? Check out our tips for stopping your dog from escaping.
