NORTHWEST MIAMI-DADE, FLA. (WSVN) - An army veteran who lost her dog in a car crash is set to be reunited with her beloved service animal days after being apart.
On Friday, Sharmaynne Thomas was in a collision with a semi-truck in Northwest Miami-Dade when the crash suddenly went up in flames. During the incident, the animal got scared and ran away.
Patrick Bord, a good Samaritan who helped the woman out of the wreckage returned to the crash site on Tuesday morning to put up flyers of Thomas’ missing dog, Sharlay. Bord despertately wanted to help find Sharlay so he helped Thomas by putting up missing flyers.
“They sacrifice for us and I think it’s something we can do for them. It’s the least we can do,” said Bord.
Unbeknownst to Bord, a woman was holding on to Sharlay in the exact moment he went on his mission to help Thomas find her dog.
Hours after Boyd taped up the flyers, Adriana Hermida called 7News to announce that she has been taking care of Sharlay since Saturday when she found Sharlay in good health and a little scared. Hermida said she found Sharlay around 4 a.m. and mentioned that the canine appeared well-kept so she took her in.
Hermida, an animal rescuer, said she didn’t give a name to Sharlay because her gut told her she had a good family already.
The 7News morning team was able to deliver Thomas the amazing news of her service dog being found. Thomas had no idea her dog was found and was shocked when she found out.
“I did have a little surprise for you,” said 7News reporter Dannielle Garcia.
“Sharlay! Baby! Thank you,” said Thomas when she saw her canine friend on a FaceTime call.
The person on the other line was Hermida.
“I was waiting for the news, for a flyer, to give her back to you,” said Hermida.
“Thank you,” said Thomas in tears.
“You’re welcome. I’m a dog lover and I rescue. She’s in good hands,” said Hermida as she turned to Sharlay to tell her she’s going back home.
Thomas said she has suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder and depression in the past.
“Being a veteran, my dog’s important, you know. A lot of people don’t understand and yet I need my dog, I need my dog to be with me,” said Thomas.
Thomas said she is grateful for the bond she has now created with two new friends, who helped her these past few days.
“I have people who love me and for a long time I didn’t feel like I could be loved and you know this is just amazing,” Thomas expressed.
Hermida said that when Thomas gets out of the hospital, Sharlay will be waiting for her.
“Don’t worry. She’s fine. You recover. She’s all yours,” said Hermida.
“Aww, thank you so much,” replied Thomas.
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