On July 29th, 2022, my family and I adopted two dogs from a shelter in Champaign County, Ohio, naming them Willow and Juniper. They were rescues from a puppy mill, so it took them some time to adjust. My siblings and I became very close to them; they brought us immense joy and were a source of fun and companionship.
On July 29th, 2024, Willow, Juniper, and our other dog, Molly, managed to escape our yard. We live on a busy main road, so their getting out was a serious concern. Molly and Willow ran across the street to a parking lot but kept darting into the road. Fortunately, most cars slowed down or stopped. As we were trying to retrieve Juniper, who was in the road, one of my family members was about to reach her. Unfortunately, a speeding driver in a black Dodge did not stop and hit Juniper, despite having ample distance to do so. My brother witnessed the entire incident, and it was deeply upsetting for all of us. My sister, who adored Juniper, was heartbroken. My mother felt guilty, and the family member who saw it feels terrible about not being able to prevent it. Willow and Molly were visibly distressed, understanding that something terrible had happened.
It is incredibly upsetting that someone could be so careless. To the driver of the black Dodge who didn’t stop: I hope you understand the impact of your actions and that it affects you deeply. This wasn’t just about a dog; Juniper meant a lot to our family. Please let this be a reminder to others about the consequences of speeding and being inattentive.
Juniper enjoying a bath 🙂
When we first adopted her 
Another photo from when we first adopted her 
Willow 
Molly
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