Independent dog becomes symbol of strength during Houston's Hurricane Harvey

The devastation caused by Hurricane Harvey meant that many people caught in its wake had to make serious adjustments to their lives. The same goes for the pets in the Houston area as well. One dog, in particular, used his resourcefulness to make the most of his situation, and in doing so became a symbol of fortitude in the face of the storm.
While viewing the damage in her neighborhood in Sinton, Texas, Tiele Dockens spotted an unusual sight: a German Shepherd mix was walking down the street carrying a full bag of dog food in his mouth. Dockens snapped the now iconic picture and posted it on her Facebook page where it went viral.
Advertisement
People who saw the picture were afraid the dog was lost, but with a bit of investigating, Dockens found out the dog lived nearby and updated her post: "PSA: Owner is found. He is not a stray he just got out on his street. Dogs name is Otis."
Otis was staying with Salvador Segovia, who was watching Otis for his five-year-old grandson who had fled before the hurricane hit. The dog had become frightened during the massive storm and took off from the house. Segovia was panicked to find the dog missing.
“I kept yelling his name and yelling his name and he wasn't around,” Segovia said. He began to search the neighborhood when one neighbor told him that Otis had been spotted walking in the street with the bag of food.
Sure enough, Otis found his way back home safely, then laid down on the front porch ready to dig into his full bag of food and weather the storm. Segovia suspects that Otis traveled to a nearby lumber store and helped himself to the bag of food. He was so happy to see Otis back home that he promised to take the dog out for a Dairy Queen hamburger when things got back to normal.
Otis' actions brought a bit of humor to a devastating situation, but he is also a symbol of strength and character during this deadly hurricane. Otis represents the spirit of South Texas. If nature gets in your way, find a way to work around it!
Watch the video of Otis' story below, then share his gumption and gutsiness with your family and friends on Facebook!
Advertisement