Autumn proved to be the most challenging rescue for the Animal Welfare League of Arlington, Virginia. Samantha Paulino, an Arlington resident, adopted Autumn, a rescue dog from South Korea, unaware of the trials that lay ahead. Autumn, a Finnish Spitz mix estimated to be around 2 or 3 years old, arrived in the U.S. in September 2023. Initially showing signs of anxiety and a strong independent streak, Autumn seemed to be settling in by December.
However, on December 28, 2023, while out for a walk in Virginia Square, Autumn bolted after something startled her, evading capture despite efforts due to her incredible speed and agility. Despite numerous sightings, Autumn remained elusive for over a month until early February, when a military band member named Katie spotted her near Arlington National Cemetery.
Katie’s help was instrumental as Autumn had made Fort Myer her temporary home. With military residents mistaking her for a base dog, it took collaborative efforts to confirm her ownership and initiate a rescue plan. The Animal Welfare League of Arlington, supported by accurate sightings, meticulously tracked Autumn’s movements for almost six months.
Despite numerous attempts using various traps, Autumn evaded capture, including innovative prototypes. Finally, on June 11, a combination trap succeeded in securing her. After spending a night decompressing with the AWLA, Autumn was joyously reunited with Paulino on June 12.
Reflecting on Autumn’s ordeal, Paulino emphasized the community effort involved in her rescue. Now equipped with a GPS tracker and extra precautions, Autumn is readjusting to home life, supported by ongoing collaboration between Paulino and the AWLA.
This version retains the essence of the original story while presenting it in a unique format.