Shena loves to look at the huge blueberry fields that line the highway as she commutes to work. Shena often sees garbage bags near the road, and sometimes she even spots coyotes in the area.
But one day, Xie Na, who asked not to use her last name, noticed what she later described as a particularly suspicious “black trash bag.”
She was ready to continue driving, but her gut said she needed to turn around. As she walked on the busy roads, she noticed a large, black dog that was snoozing in a blueberry bush.
“I was shocked,” Shena told The Dodo. “Her eyes opened, and a sense of pure relief came over me.”
Xie Na approached the dog slowly, trying to avoid disturbing her timidity. She tried to shout to the puppy, but it was difficult to hear in the noises of freeway traffic. Sheena noticed the dog was injured – one of her legs seemed to be dangling at an odd angle. She knew she needed help ASAP, but the neurotic dog didn’t trust people and started running away.
“At one point I couldn’t see her and I got really worried and started panicking,” Shena said. “I was worried that I had lost her and that she would suffer and fear alone. I started jogging along the side of the blueberry field, looking down at each row.”
After what seemed like an eternity Xie Na finally found her. She pulled out a fanny pack and transformed the belt into one. She approached her dog cautiously, and coaxed him into the belt.
“My heart is ecstatic,” Sheena said. “I was so excited that I was able to help her.”
Sheena brought the puppy to RAPS Animal Hospital where the veterinarian started treating her broken leg. Shena was unable to part ways with her friend soon, so she named Blueberry after the place they met.
A year after finding her, Shena made a video documenting Blueberry’s rescue and recovery.
Blueberry used to be a cringe-inducing comedian in front of strangers. Today, he is a funny, lovable comedian who has a new lease on life.
“She’s also an absolute ham and can be hilarious,” Shena said. “She makes ridiculous noises when she’s excited. She’s eager to please. She also does everything a thousand percent.”
Blueberry loves to explore new trails and parks along with her mom. She also enjoys visiting pet-friendly stores such as PetSmart and Home Depot.
Sheena is grateful that she decided to stop driving that day. She was capable of saving a life, and making a new best friend.
“[Blueberry] Reinforces how incredible dogs (and animals) are when they are treated with love, kindness, respect, and compassion,” said Shena. “I’m grateful we found each other. “
