A recent heartwarming story out of Pottsville, Pennsylvania, has brought the community together in a remarkable way. This week, a local hiker, Collin Leiby, discovered his missing golden retriever, Freddy, who had been lost for a week. The story began when Freddy wandered off the mountain trail, leading Collin on a search that ended in a deep coal pit.
Collin, a 33-year-old wedding photographer and outdoor enthusiast, spotted a familiar tail near some rocks. It was Freddy, just six months old, weakened but alive. “A tear came to my eye,” Collin shared, recalling the relief of spotting his four-legged friend. As he called for Freddy, the dog slowly emerged, making his way toward Collin.
With some effort, Collin helped Freddy out of the icy pit, offering him water and a leash before guiding him back home alongside his other dog, a pit bull mix named Bass. “He was crying and jumping on me. He was like, ‘Get me home,’” he said, capturing a touching moment between man and dog.
The Palko family, Freddy’s owners, had been actively searching for their beloved pet since he went missing on February 17. They utilized social media, followed tips, and gathered volunteers to post flyers. Their quest included bringing in experts with search dogs and aerial thermal drones to aid in the search effort.
As the days passed and the cold intensified, the family’s hope began to wane. Pam Palko, a financial planner and mother of three, expressed her fears, noting how the frigid temperatures weighed heavily on their spirits. Just as they were about to follow up on another tip at a nearby animal shelter, they received a surprise alert from their home security camera—Freddy had been found!
Their neighbor, Dr. Carolyn Canizaro-Orlowsky, a retired veterinarian, had discovered Freddy at their door, looking a little frantic but safe. The Palkos, who had previously lost another dog to cancer, welcomed Freddy back with open arms, relieved that their search had ended in success.
Freddy, while a bit lighter at 35 pounds after his week of adventure, emerged healthy and safe. The community’s support and determination to find him have left a lasting impact on the Palkos. “There’s a big collective sigh of relief,” Dr. Canizaro-Orlowsky remarked, emphasizing the importance of never losing hope.
This story serves as a reminder of the strong bonds between families and their pets, as well as the strength of a community coming together in times of need.
