Some links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Jolene, a brown Labrador–pit bull mix service dog, was inside Aaron Morris’s 2006 light-blue Buick Lucerne when the car was stolen in Haywood County, North Carolina, on May 21, 2021. She was later found wandering in Morristown, Tennessee, and taken to Morristown Hamblen Humane Society. Shelter staff and a social-media appeal eventually located Morris, leading to an emotional reunion in which Jolene rushed toward him and covered him with kisses.
What happened when Jolene was stolen?
Morris left his Buick running while he went into a Dollar General in the Jonathan Creek community of Haywood County. Surveillance footage described in local reporting showed another person examining the vehicle before driving away. Jolene was in the car, along with Morris’s phone and medication.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallCrashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteThe theft left Morris without both essential belongings and the service dog he depended on for mental-health support. His sister, Ashley Adevai, said he was unusually distressed and stopped eating while Jolene was missing. “It’s life and death for my brother, he’s talking not normal,” Adevai said. “I’m very worried about him if the dog does not come back.”
Where was the stolen service dog found?
Jolene was found wandering on the side of a road in Morristown, Tennessee. Someone brought her to Morristown Hamblen Humane Society, where staff began trying to identify her owner.
Popular on Amazon
- Dog multivitamins chewable for skin & coat : Dog multivitamin is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E,which can relieve skin allergies,dryness,itching and other problems.Multivitamin for dogs nourishes skin follicles.Long-term consumption of dog vitamins multivitamin can make dog hair stronger and smoother,and reduce coat loss.The COQ10 in dog multivitamin chewable can resist oxidation and delay cell aging.Dogs with skin injuries can eat dog vitamins and supplements to promote wound healing
- Dog multivitamin relieves joint inflammation: Dog vitamins for hip and joint can supplement high-quality MSM, glucosamine, and chondroitin sulfate to promote cartilage development and repair. Long-term consumption of dog multivitamins chewable can enhance the elasticity and toughness of joint cartilage, improve joint flexibility, and move more freely. Dog multivitamin chews can reduce joint friction and relieve joint pain. Dog vitamins and supplements can prevent and improve dog joint problems
- Dog multivitamin chews are good for the gut: Vet-endorsed formula dog vitamins and supplements made from natural ingredients.Dog vitamins multivitamin chewables contain a rich blend of probiotics to support intestinal and digestive health.Dog vitamins for small dogs can regulate the balance of intestinal flora,help calcium absorption,and promote bone development.Dog multivitamins chewables improve energy metabolism,converting food into energy, making dogs more energetic in their daily activities
- Dog multivitamin chews protect overall health:Senior dog vitamins and supplements help improve blood circulation and prevent cardiovascular disease.Dog multivitamins chewable support normal liver function,promote liver detoxification,and improve negative mood.For dog with heart problems and older dog,taking dog vitamins and supplements in moderation is an auxiliary health care measure.Dog vitamins multivitamin helps enhance white blood cell activity,improve immunity,prevent infection and disease
- Dog multivitamins chewable promote brain development: The DHA in krill oil in multivitamin for dogs is an important component of the brain and retina. Dog vitamins and supplements can improve dog cognitive ability. When training puppies to learn basic commands, puppies who are properly supplemented with dog vitamins multivitamin will behave more intelligently and improve memory.Dog supplements & vitamins can prevent and relieve eye problems such as dry eyes and tear stains, and keep eyes healthy
The shelter first called the number on Jolene’s identification tags. That attempt did not reach Morris because his phone had been left in the stolen Buick. Staff then used Facebook and other social-media outreach to find the family.
How did Jolene get reunited with Aaron Morris?
Once the shelter’s online appeal reached people connected to Morris, staff were able to confirm the dog’s identity and arrange contact with him. The reunion video showed Jolene recognizing Morris immediately, running toward him and showering him with kisses.
Also popular on Amazon
- 8-in-1 Formula - Zesty Paws Multifunctional Bites are functional supplement chews with premium ingredients that support physical performance, antioxidants, hip & joint, heart, immune, skin, liver, & gut health for dogs of all ages, breeds, and sizes.
- Skin Health & Antioxidants – For animals with sensitive skin, this formula contains Cod Liver Fish Oil and Vitamin E to help maintain normal moisture and CoQ10 to help reduce oxidative stress.
- Hip, Joint & Performance Support - Each dog chew features OptiMSM, a premium form of MSM for muscular support, which works synergistically with the Glucosamine HCl and Chondroitin Sulfate in these chews for hip and joint support plus Cod Liver Oil and B-Complex Vitamins support normal physical performance.
- Gut Health & Probiotics - These chews also contain a six-strain Gut Health Blend (500 million cfu per chew) and a Digestive Health Blend to promote gut flora while supporting normal bowel function for dogs.
- Heart, Liver & Immune Health - Multifunctional Bites feature powerful antioxidants, premium CoQ10, Cod Liver Oil and Vitamins A, C, & E to promote healthy cardiovascular function, support liver health and enhance immune response.
Morris had described how urgently he wanted her home. “I don’t know if she’s eating,” he said. “I’ll eat when she comes home.” The reunion restored the service-dog partnership that had been interrupted by the theft.
Who helped find Jolene?
Several groups and individuals contributed to the recovery:
Also popular on Amazon
- COMPLETE 26-IN-1 DAILY WELLNESS FORMULA: Our advanced multivitamin for dogs is formulated to help support 26 vital nutritional areas as part of a daily routine. With essential vitamins A, C, D3, and E, these gummies help support the immune system and contribute to overall heart and brain health for dogs of all sizes.
- ADVANCED HIP AND JOINT MOBILITY SUPPORT: Formulated with Glucosamine HCl, Chondroitin, and MSM to help support cartilage health, joint flexibility, and everyday mobility — making them a great daily supplement for large breed dogs and active senior dogs.
- SKIN & COAT SUPPORT: Packed with Norwegian Salmon Oil and Biotin, our dog multivitamin helps nourish skin from within and supports a soft, glossy coat. Omega 3 fatty acids contribute to healthy skin and coat as part of a complete daily nutritional routine.
- PROBIOTICS & DIGESTIVE SUPPORT: Features a Six-Probiotic Blend (500 Million CFU) and Digestive Enzymes to help support gut health, smooth digestion, and nutrient absorption. Cranberry Powder is included as part of this comprehensive daily wellness formula.
- UNBEATABLE VALUE 250 COUNT JAR: Our 250-count jar provides lasting daily support in a delicious chicken flavor. Made in the USA in a GMP-certified facility, our soft chews are grain-free and suitable for puppies, adult, and senior dogs alike.
- Morristown Hamblen Humane Society: The shelter cared for Jolene, checked her tags and used social media when the listed phone number was unreachable.
- Morris’s family: Relatives shared information and offered a $1,000 reward for information about the stolen vehicle and dog.
- Haywood County authorities: The sheriff’s office asked the public to help identify the person seen in connection with the theft.
- Community members online: Social-media sharing connected the Tennessee shelter with Morris’s family in North Carolina.
Was Jolene wearing identification?
Yes. Jolene wore identification tags, and shelter staff tried the telephone number printed on them. The tags were an important starting point, but the recovery also shows why contact details need a backup: Morris’s phone was in the stolen car, so the primary number could not be answered.
Keeping identification useful after a move or phone change
Owners of service dogs and other pets should check that the number and address on every tag remain current. A durable, personalized dog ID tag can provide a fast point of contact, while a registered microchip offers a second identification method if a collar or tag is lost. Neither replaces the other.
Recommended Free Tools
Also popular on Amazon
- Joint Health Supplement for Dogs: Cosequin is the #1 vet recommended retail joint health supplement brand, supporting joint health in dogs for over 25 years
- Contains Glucosamine for Dogs: Cosequin contains glucosamine hydrochloride (FCHG49) and sodium chondroitin sulfate (TRH122), plus methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). This unique combination of ingredients supports healthy joints
- For Any Breed or Size: Whether you have a young or senior dog, a small or large breed, Cosequin helps support their joint health
- Tasty Chews for Daily Use: Cosequin comes in a tasty chewable tablet, making daily administration easy and convenient
- Exceptional Quality: Cosequin is backed by science, undergoing thorough quality inspections to ensure your dog receives a safe, high-quality product. It is manufactured in the United States with globally sourced ingredients
Why was the loss especially serious for Morris?
Jolene was not simply a pet traveling in the vehicle. Reporting described her as Morris’s service dog and a source of mental-health support. Her disappearance occurred at the same time he lost his medication and phone, creating an unusually difficult emergency for him and his family.
Michael Sorrells, owner of a nearby gas station, described Morris’s reaction this way: “Very upset, very heartbroken, very concerned about his vehicle, but more about his dog really.”
Also popular on Amazon
- Itch & Allergy Relief with Omega-3 for Dogs - with 500mg of Omega (EPA+DHA) per serving, our chewable supplement helps with hot spots, dry itchy skin, ease itching, irritated skin, stops shedding.
- Skin & Coat + Hip & Joint Supplement Combined - Omega 3 is a vital element to keep your pet active, support healthy hip and joints, brain, heart, immune health. Can be served with regular pet food.
- Bark&Spark Commitment - we are keen to give best to our furry customers and we take NO compromise when it comes to product quality. Our omega 3 bites are made in the USA, with human grade ingredients.
- Up to 3 Month Supply - with 180 salmon oil treats per jar you keep your pet healthy while not spending a fortune on overpriced supplements. Best value.
- Is Your Dog a Picky Eater? We stick to simple formulas rich in natural flavors, that could tempt a fussy eater. No hassle with pills, powder, tablets or capsules.
What can people do if a service dog is missing?
- Call law enforcement immediately. Report the theft or disappearance and provide the dog’s name, description, microchip number, service-dog status and recent photograph.
- Contact shelters and animal-control agencies. Include communities outside the immediate area, since a dog may be transported or wander across county or state lines.
- Use every available contact route. Post clear notices through local lost-and-found groups, call listed tag numbers from another phone and ask trusted relatives to monitor messages.
- Share identifying details carefully. Provide coat pattern, distinguishing marks, tags, collar, vest and behavioral information that can help confirm ownership.
- Plan for medication and support needs. If the handler relies on medication or the dog for daily functioning, tell medical providers and trusted contacts so an interim safety plan is available.
Morris’s family’s $1,000 reward was offered while investigators sought information about the vehicle theft. Rewards and public posts can increase visibility, but owners should coordinate with police and verify any claim before handing over a dog or money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Could Jolene’s tags identify her even though the phone number failed?
The tags gave the shelter a direct lead, but the number was unreachable because Morris’s phone was inside the stolen car. Staff had to use social media to find the family instead.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Was the car ever recovered?
The accounts of the reunion focus on Jolene’s recovery and the search for the person who took the Buick. They do not establish the vehicle’s final recovery status.
Did Jolene travel from North Carolina to Tennessee on her own?
Available reporting confirms that she was found in Morristown, Tennessee, after the Haywood County theft, but it does not explain how she got there.
What kind of dog was Jolene?
She was described as a brown Labrador–pit bull mix and a service dog trained or used to support Morris’s mental health.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Leave a Reply