@funcountess, Yes, our 4 legged friends can be really fast and out the door before we know it. I am so fortunate to have neighbors who helped me look for Precious. One neighbor helped me post a photo of her on our neighborhood site and local lost & found 'net sites. It was dreadful driving to the animal shelter each day to check the deceased list. They don't give that info over the phone. The not knowing was the hardest part because imagination can be treacherous.

It was a terribly stressful time because a couple of times before when she'd gotten out, she stayed in the front yard. Something must have chased or frightened her away. I had promised my neighbor the day before that I'd bring over cat food and litter for her cat. Heard a meow in the middle of the night; thought I was having a nightmare; turned on the light and there sat Precious in the middle of the bedroom floor "talking to me". At first I couldn't believe it. I do have a pet door in utility hall and garage door but both had been "permanently" closed since Precious adopted me. When she went missing, I opened both pet doors and that little girl found her way back inside.

Next morning we went to the vet for a check-up and possible dehydration. One toe nail had been torn off but otherwise no injuries. Incredibly, she is the only pet I've ever had that didn't race me to the door but after her return and even now, several months later, she does not even approach an outside door as I move toward one.

My best friends have an adorable Yorkie who would like to make friends with Precious but she is very shy and immediately hides whenever he comes over. Are you a dog, cat, or other pet parent? I agree that walking on grass/ground means a longer and more enjoyable walk than on pavement. I miss walks with my Sunshine dowg of 17 yrs and it was hard to start walking again this past January without her. Do you have a pet that can accompany you on your walks? Much earlier, I tried a harness and leash and liberally sprinkled them with catnip but Precious would have no part of that!