There he was—curled up in a shopping cart outside a Phoenix grocery store, looking like yesterday’s trash. But this wasn’t garbage. This was a lost soul waiting for a miracle.
Dyesa and her friend were just passing by, headed to a doctor’s appointment, when they spotted him. A small puppy, eyes wide with fear, yet hopeful. They didn’t hesitate. They approached, offered comfort, and named him Herbert.
Store employees mentioned the pup had been there since dawn, but no one knew his story. Assuming he was abandoned, the women fed him, wrapped him in a jacket, and contacted Maricopa County Animal Care & Control. Herbert was safe, but the mystery remained.
Dyesa shared Herbert’s story on TikTok, hoping someone would recognize him. The video went viral, stirring emotions and anger towards those who might have abandoned him. But then, a twist:

Five days later, Dyesa updated her followers. Herbert wasn’t abandoned. He had escaped from his home, and his owner had been searching tirelessly. A friend of the owner saw the TikTok video and connected the dots. Soon, Herbert, whose real name is Roy, was reunited with his family.
This story isn’t just about a lost dog. It’s about the power of community, the reach of social media, and the unexpected ways we can make a difference.
Always stop for the dog in the cart. You might just be the link that brings him home.