Dog Refuses to Leave His Owner After Hit-and-Run—Then a Rescuer Gives Him a Second Chance
When tragedy struck in South Los Angeles, a Husky-Akita mix showed the world what loyalty looks like. After his 63-year-old owner was killed in a heartbreaking hit-and-run while riding his bicycle, the devoted dog refused to leave his side, as per KCAL News. Even as officers tried to move him, he stayed close, guarding the man he loved. (Watch Video Above)
With no family to claim him, he was destined for an animal shelter, until photojournalists at the scene reached out to Alex Choi, a kindhearted rescuer already caring for four rescue dogs. Alex brought the grieving pup home, giving him comfort, safety, and the promise of another chance at love.
Unmatched Loyalty
Choi shared that the Husky-Akita mix had been standing guard over his owner’s body for hours, unwilling to leave the spot where the accident happened. It took gentle persistence and great effort for Choi to finally guide the grieving dog away.
Even after being placed in Choi’s truck, the heartbroken pup kept turning back toward the intersection, howling as if calling for the man he had lost. The loyalty was as beautiful as it was heartbreaking.
Neighbors told Choi the man was likely homeless but had raised the dog since he was a tiny puppy. The two were inseparable, relying on each other for love and companionship. With no family to step in and no one nearby able to take him, Choi brought the loyal pup home.
Desperate Escape in Search of His Dad
Just 24 hours after being brought to safety, the grieving pup’s heartbreak became clear. In the middle of the night, he clawed his way out of the back house where he was staying. Choi believes he was desperately trying to find his dad, still searching for the man who had always been by his side.
When Choi checked on him around 5 or 6 a.m., the dog was gone. In his desperation, he had even chewed through a door, leaving the room destroyed in his escape attempt. What mattered more, though, was that he was missing and vulnerable out on the streets.
Choi posted flyers around the neighborhood, spread the word on social media, and even used thermal imaging drones to search for him through the night. Finally, thanks to the power of community and word of mouth, Joey was led to the runaway dog and brought him safely home once again.
Chicken Dinners, Spanish Lessons, and a Second Chance
The loyal pup was spotted at a gas station in heartbreaking shape: ticks and fleas covering his body, and even a trash bag tied over his head. Thankfully, he was rescued once more and returned to Alex Choi’s care, where he’s finally safe and showered with love (and plenty of chicken dinners).
For now, Choi calls him simply “Dog,” since no one knows his real name. It didn’t take long to uncover a surprising detail: Dog only understands commands in Spanish. At first, Choi couldn’t figure out why simple commands like “sit” or “stay” weren’t working, until a friend said, “siéntate.” To his amazement, Dog sat right down.
Now, Choi is brushing up on his Spanish, using phrases like “siéntate” and “mano” to connect with his new friend. While he’s only fostering for the time being since he already has four rescue dogs, many families have stepped forward, hoping to adopt. Choi, however, wants to make sure this special dog ends up with a close friend, ensuring he’ll always be surrounded by love and safety.
