This pup was saved by love, trust, friendship and volunteers

The day started out pretty normal — until an alert went out that one of the dogs adopted from Manatee County Animal Services, Sherbert, a very shy, timid girl, had escaped from her new home.

Shelter volunteers, admins on the Lost and Found Pets 941 (Manatee & Sarasota) Facebook page, and local residents jumped into action. Updates were provided throughout the day with potential sightings. You see, everyone was pretty worried. Sherbert had been part of a large confiscate case and lived in the shelter for over a year. She would be easily frightened and spooked, out there on her own.

Finally, around 2 p.m. there was a confirmed sighting. She was tired and found herself a large, shady tree to rest under. As this volunteer stood watch, a plea went out for help. Shelter volunteers jumped in their cars with leash and treats in hand, others provided directions, including Google earth photos of the exact location, phone contact was made with Sherbert's mom, all working together to help rescue this girl.

And then, the most amazing thing happened. Manatee County Animal Services volunteer, Caroline Liljencrantz, who had worked with Sherbert in the shelter, arrived, called her name and sweet, scared Sherbert came to greet her friend. A friend she trusted. A friend she knew loved her.

I was blessed to witness the love, devotion and trust the shelter animals have for their volunteers and vice versa. Volunteers are the real heroes for our shelter animals. I am proud to know these folks and I applaud their compassion and love for all. Thank you to Dorrie Lussier, JLay Srq and Jack, Benita Saldutti, Grace Jay, Shellie Burney Szeezil, Patty Dillon Giarrusso for coming together to get this girl home safe.

This story was originally published September 6, 2017 at 3:56 PM with the headline "This pup was saved by love, trust, friendship and volunteers."