There’s a special kind of panic that only dog owners understand—the sheer terror that strikes when your puppy goes missing. In Chapter 3 of Amazing Dog Stories by David Wilk (a finalist for Book of the Year by the National Dog Writers Association), readers are taken on a nerve-racking journey that every pet parent can relate to.
The chapter, titled “Lost Puppy,” centers around Petey, one of the youngest and most adventurous members of the Wilk family’s beloved canine crew. Still just a small puppy at the time, Petey had a fearless spirit and a nose for exploration, which led to a moment that would haunt any dog owner.
It started on a beautiful afternoon. Petey and his sister, Tinker, were happily playing in the yard under the watchful eye of David and his wife, Terryle (affectionately called “Tunes”). The puppies were young, curious, and always into something. But in the blink of an eye, Petey vanished.
At first, it was easy to assume he was nearby, hiding in a bush or taking a nap. But as minutes passed and frantic searching turned up nothing, fear began to set in. The family sprang into action. Everyone who was at the house joined the search, calling Petey’s name, combing the surrounding hills, woods, and hidden corners of the forested property.
Living in the wilderness of Ojai, California, meant real danger. Coyotes were known to roam the area. And a small, soft-furred Golden Retriever puppy would be easy prey. Eagles and hawks flew in the skies above and either was capable of spiriting away a small puppy.
David took off up the steep hill behind the house, desperately shouting into the wind. Neighbors were alerted and joined the search. Hearts were pounding. It was one of those moments where time stretches—when you’re terrified you’ve lost something you love beyond words.
And then came the twist.
While the searchers were looking out in the woods and up in the hills, Tunes had a hunch and circled back to the house. Behind the trash cans, she found the culprit—and the puppy.
Petey had discovered a leftover can of turkey grease from the holidays. While the family panicked, he was happily lapping up every last drop of the hardened, week-old drippings.
Relief flooded the household. David raced back down the hill as Tunes called out, “I found him!” But the happiness came with a side of puppy indigestion. Petey, full of aged grease, vomited several times that evening—but he was safe.
This story, like many others in Amazing Dog Stories, is a reminder of what it means to love a dog. It’s never just about the walks, the cuddles, or even the training. It’s about the panic and the prayer, the highs and lows, and the indescribable joy of having them back in your arms.
Amazing Dog Stories is filled with true tales just like this—funny, heartfelt, suspenseful, and deeply human. No wonder it’s a finalist for Book of the Year from the National Dog Writers Association.
Because if you’ve ever loved a dog, you already know: losing them, even for a moment, is unforgettable.