By Polly Lynn
KILLINGTON — “He has been found!!! He is alive. Very thin, feet cut up, but happy to see Kimberly,” a family member posted on the “Find JD – just dog VT” community Facebook page Sunday, Jan. 11 at 2:39 p.m. The 5-year-old yellow lab from Boston had survived 11 days outside, in sub-zero temperatures.
The greater Killington community rejoiced as countless friends, family and sympathetic community members had followed the story, many joining in search efforts. JD went missing from his owner Kimberly’s ski house in Killington on New Year’s Eve after being spooked by fireworks.
Diane Nelligan, a JD Facebook page follower and second homeowner in Killington posted: “As a dog owner, I can only imagine your worry and concern over the last 11 days! I am so happy that JD is back with you and that he is going to be okay!!! I am also proud to call Killington my second home; what an amazing community! Way to go Killington!!!”
After the emotional reunion with JD, Kimberly Parker posted: “Thank everyone for your tremendous efforts, kindness and perseverance.”
JD was found Sunday, frostbitten, dehydrated and starving, but alive. He had followed two girls into the Woods Spa in Killington after having been sighted near Base Camp Outfitters on Route 4, according to a Facebook post.
After retrieving JD, Kimberly Parker and her dad, Peter Parker, took him to Rutland veterinarian Bruce LeGallais from the Eastwood Animal Clinic, who started him on his long path to full recovery.
