A beagle that was lost in a New York City subway station has finally been reunited with his family just in time for the holidays. The beagle, named Blue, was discovered by MTA employee James Dineen at a southbound D train platform in Brooklyn. Blue, who was without a leash, approached Dineen on December 6 trembling, crying, and shivering from the cold.
Initially, Dineen mistook two women sitting on a bench for Blue’s owners, but realizing the situation, he knew he had to step in and help the pup himself. The heartwarming reunion between Blue and his family took place on December 11, bringing joy and relief to everyone involved.
MTA worker James Dineen discovered Blue on a southbound D train platform in Brooklyn on December 6th. He rescued the pup and soon Blue became smitten with all 40 of his colleagues, frolicking around like a playful puppy. Dineen shared that Blue seemed to sense the trustworthiness of the people around him, showcasing his lovable nature as he happily mingled with everyone. Not sure how long Blue had been on his own, Dineen noticed that the hungry pup would eat anything in sight. The team decided to check if Blue had a microchip, a tool that can help reunite lost pets with their owners. Blue did have a microchip, but unfortunately, there were no registered owners on file to reconnect him with.
The dog quickly formed affectionate bonds with all of Dineen’s colleagues, who generously offered to foster him in their homes in both New York and New Jersey. Following a post on the Lost and Found Pets in Brooklyn Facebook page by the MTA employees, they took turns looking after the dog. Just a day after sharing Blue’s story online, they received a call from his owners who had seen the post. Blue was taken to the vet by Dineen and his co-workers, where they found that his microchip matched the owner’s details. The moment the delighted owners came to collect their beloved beagle, the MTA staff discovered his true name.
When the reunion finally took place on December 11th, it was a scene filled with overwhelming emotions. As soon as Blue saw his owners, his tail wagged furiously, and he let out an excited howl, as if expressing his joy at finally being home. The moment he was in their arms, he buried his face into their shoulders, licking their faces and whimpering with happiness. The relief in their eyes was unmistakable; they had their family member back just in time for the holiday season.
The MTA employees who had cared for Blue during his days away from home were equally emotional. Many of them had bonded with the affectionate beagle, and while they were overjoyed that he was going home, they admitted they would miss his playful presence. “He became like a little mascot for us,” one MTA worker shared. “It’s amazing how animals have a way of bringing people together.”
Dineen, who had found Blue trembling on the subway platform, reflected on the experience with gratitude. “You never know what a day at work is going to bring,” he said with a smile. “I’m just happy that we were able to help him find his way back.”
Blue’s owners expressed immense gratitude to the MTA workers, thanking them for their kindness and generosity. “We can’t believe the love and care he received,” they said. “Knowing that so many people looked after him when he was lost brings us so much comfort. We’re forever grateful.”
The story of Blue’s rescue and reunion quickly spread, warming the hearts of many across New York and beyond. Social media users flooded the original post with comments, celebrating the happy ending. “This is the kind of news we all need,” one person wrote. “So glad this sweet boy made it home!” Another user shared, “Huge thanks to the MTA workers for going above and beyond. You all are heroes!”
As Blue settled back into his home, his owners made sure he felt extra loved. They spoiled him with his favorite treats, extra belly rubs, and long walks in the park. Blue, once lost and scared in a bustling subway station, was now back where he belonged—surrounded by the family who adored him.
The story of Blue’s journey serves as a heartwarming reminder of the kindness of strangers and the power of community. It highlights the importance of microchipping pets and keeping contact information updated, ensuring that lost animals have the best chance of being reunited with their families. But more than anything, it showcases the deep bond between humans and their four-legged companions, proving that love and compassion can lead to beautiful reunions, just like Blue’s.
For the MTA employees who had temporarily become Blue’s caretakers, the experience left a lasting impact. Dineen, in particular, found himself reflecting on how a simple act of kindness had brought so much joy. “It just goes to show that even in a big city like New York, there’s still so much heart,” he said. “I’ll never forget Blue, and I know he won’t forget us either.”
As the holiday season continued, Blue’s owners celebrated with an extra sense of gratitude. This Christmas, they had received the greatest gift of all—the return of their beloved beagle, safe and sound. And as Blue curled up beside them, peacefully dozing after an eventful journey, it was clear that he, too, felt right at home.
