From Street Dog to Best Friend

This dog used to live a lonely life on the streets. Now she's asleep in my living room, thanks to a series of Uber rides that led me right to her.

Finding Myself in a New City

A few years ago, I moved to a new city during a difficult time in my life. Living alone in an unfamiliar place, I felt isolated and lonely. I was struggling to adjust.

Then I saw that a local dog rescue hosted weekly hikes with adoptable dogs. This seemed like a perfect opportunity to get out and make friends.

Since I lived in an urban area without a car, I relied on Uber to take me to and from these hikes. They became my favorite part of each week. As my connections within the community grew, I started to feel like myself again.

Meeting My Match

One day, I saw a video of the rescue's newest dogs - a group of former Thai street dogs. One of them caught my eye: a scruffy golden pup sitting awkwardly on a volunteer's lap, even though she was just a little too big.

Something about her resonated with me. She seemed to be longing for connection in the same way that I had been. I needed to meet her.

The Ride That Changed Everything

The rescue itself was in a more remote area, so I took an Uber to get there. During the ride, I chatted with the driver about the dog and how maybe someday soon I could adopt her.

When I arrived, that dog and I clicked instantly. After walking her for a couple of hours, I knew I couldn't leave without her.

Coming Home Together

I requested an Uber Pet for Frito and me. It turned out to be the same driver who had dropped me off! She said she'd had a feeling I'd probably be going home with a new best friend.

She arrived with a blanket on the back seat and such genuine excitement for me that it still makes my day when I think about it.

The Value of Small Connections

It's little moments like that experience that I've learned not to take for granted. That's why I do my best to share them when I see them, to make sure they don't go unnoticed.

Sometimes the journey to finding connection takes unexpected turns - and sometimes those turns happen in the back seat of an Uber, with a former street dog by your side.