Community Comes Together to Rescue Lost Poodle Mix Just in Time for the Holidays

After a harrowing 27 days of uncertainty, Lyle, a brown poodle mix, has finally returned home to safety just in time for the holidays. The beloved pup had escaped from his foster family on November 22 and embarked on a journey of survival in the north end of Kelowna, evading capture despite numerous sightings reported by community members. Charlotte, a dedicated volunteer with the local animal rescue charity Paws It Forward, shared the moment of triumph when Lyle was finally caught. “Today at 6:02 p.m., we caught him,” she announced, her voice tinged with relief. The exhaustion evident in Lyle, who was found bundled in a blanket on a fellow volunteer's lap, spoke volumes about the challenges he faced during his month-long ordeal. The community rallied around Lyle’s plight, with over a hundred volunteers dedicating their time to locate him. Charlotte recounted the tireless efforts of the volunteers, who spent hours walking the streets, hanging posters, and knocking on doors in search of the elusive pup. “We have just been in awe of the community support this past month,” she expressed, emphasizing the critical role that local residents played in the search. One community member, Mike from the Glenmore area, made a significant contribution by feeding Lyle during his time on the run. Unbeknownst to him that he was caring for a lost foster dog, Mike was instrumental in bringing the team together once he learned of Lyle’s situation. He welcomed the volunteers onto his property to set up cameras and a trap, ultimately leading to Lyle’s safe capture. Now that Lyle is back in the care of Paws It Forward, he is expected to undergo a veterinary check-up to ensure he is in good health after his wild adventure. The bond of community spirit and compassion has shone brightly throughout this ordeal, illustrating the lengths people will go to help a lost animal. As Lyle nestles into a warm and safe environment, the team at Paws It Forward reflects on the importance of their work. The organization currently has around 100 dogs in foster care homes, all eagerly awaiting loving families. This heartwarming story serves as a reminder of the power of community and the dedication of volunteers who strive to make a difference in the lives of animals in need. For those interested in supporting Paws It Forward or adopting a furry friend, more information can be found at their website, pawsitforward.org. As the year draws to a close, Lyle’s safe return brings a joyful note to the holiday season, reminding us all of the love and care that exists within our community.