UPDATE: Happy ending for dog lost after I-95 crash
EMPORIA, Va (WTVR)—Four days ago, Felix—a six-month old dog—escaped from his crate during a car accident on Interstate 95.
Felix was saved from a shelter in Nash County, North Carolina and was headed for a new home in a northern state. There were two other dogs in a transport van with Felix that day; all headed to their new adoption homes.
In recent years, rescue groups have focused on getting dogs and cats, that were in the process of being euthanized, out from overcrowded shelters and into northern states.
The reason the arrangement works out, says animal care associates, is that most northern states have less animals in their shelters for adoption because of a highly successful spay-neutering program.
It's the opposite in southern states, where many shelters are labeled as "kill shelters" because they don't have the funds or space to keep all the animals they acquire, and as a result the animals are put down.
The transport up north mutually beneficial and allows many in the New England states a chance to adopt a healthy dog or cat without having to travel south to pick them up.
On Friday, Feb. 1, a transport van with the three dogs inside was involved in an accident in Emporia, Virginia.
Two of the dogs escaped from their crate. One was found Sunday, deceased.
The other, Felix, remains on the loose. Animal care advocates said that Felix recently had heartworm treatment and will need medical attention.
A $600 dollar reward for his return is now being offered and flyers can be found on posts and in convenience stores around Exit 13 where the accident happened.
Tuesday morning, it is believed Felix was spotted near Exit 17 but was not able to be caught.
If you see him, call 252-985-8699.
