To the Editor:

Last Saturday was a devastating, exhausting day for me and my out-of-state daughter and granddaughters when their 2-year-old, beautiful, (and very loved) golden retriever, Bowie, got so very and completely lost for so very and incredibly long — 12 hours, to be exact.

Apparently, the unusual (to him) sight of a running deer undermined his usual good behavior and response to commands and he quickly got lost in the 100+ acres of the Huntingtown woods.

It didn’t take long to realize we were too few and in deep trouble. Nor did it take long, after contacting Newtown’s Animal Control, to feel the relief of their knowledge and support (thank you, Emily, for your steady reassurance) and corresponding post on Social Media. How refreshing to see the positive side of social media, for a change, as caring Neighbor after concerned Newtowner responded, shared to other sites, conducted their own searches and offered valuable experiences and advice.

A very special thank you to Michelle and Dan Semosky, who jumped in within minutes of the post and helped us in every way they could — driving, searching, providing water and priceless encouragement — giving up their entire precious Saturday for complete strangers.

Ultimately, Bowie was able to find his own way out, in the pitch dark, probably aided by the many smelly, sweaty pieces of clothing left to lead him, bedraggled, scratched, with bruises and burrs, but very happy to be home.

In addition to the Semoskys, we thank everyone who reached out, especially Joy Kopesky and Andy, Laura and Will Buonaiuto as well as all who shared their concern through Newtown’s very active social media network.

Just one more reminder of what a special town this is.

Chris Lincoln

Newtown