Dog Walks Home Alone After Owner’s Death in Hit-and-Run: Now Training to Be a Service Animal

Patch, a mixed-breed dog, is currently undergoing a transition after his female owner, who was visually impaired, was tragically killed in a hit-and-run incident on March 22 in Nashville, Tennessee. According to the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, the woman was reportedly struck by a Ford F-150 pickup truck and was later found by a passerby.

Despite the unfortunate event, Patch was unharmed and reportedly made his way back to a nearby apartment complex on his own, waiting outside a neighbor’s door until he was discovered by officers.

Following the incident, Patch was placed under the care of the Metro Animal Care and Control (MACC) in hopes of reuniting him with a family member of his late owner. Despite efforts, no next of kin was found, but options for the dog’s future are being considered.

Matthews Peters, a representative from MACC, shared that several rescue groups have expressed interest in adopting Patch, who may have had a previous life as a service dog. Peters suggested that a rescue group specializing in service animals could be a suitable option for Patch. However, MACC’s current priority remains locating Patch’s family.

Following unsuccessful attempts to locate a family member of Patch’s late owner to assume responsibility for the dog’s care, Metro Animal Care and Control (MACC) reached out to Medical Mutts Service Dogs for assistance.

Kelsey Burton, the Director of Development at Medical Mutts, expressed that Patch was discovered to be his handler’s service dog, which prompted the organization’s involvement. Medical Mutts is a non-profit that provides training to rescue dogs to become service animals, prioritizing ethical training and education, as well as research.

Burton mentioned that Medical Mutts frequently collaborates with shelter and rescue organizations, including Metro Nashville Animal Care and Control, and that Patch met the necessary qualifications to be considered as a service dog candidate. She expressed confidence in Patch’s potential to excel in training and serve as an exceptional companion and service animal for his future partner.

The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department is currently investigating the hit-and-run incident that resulted in the death of Patch’s owner, urging any witnesses to come forward with relevant information.

Individuals interested in supporting Medical Mutts’ initiatives can visit their official website for more information.

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