Jared and Kristi Owens of Texas were filled with anticipation as they prepared for their long-awaited getaway to Las Vegas.
With their luggage ready and spirits high, they headed to Lubbock airport, imagining a simple check-in followed by an easy boarding process.
What seemed like a standard travel day quickly shifted when one of their bags was flagged for weighing six pounds over the allowed limit.
An Unexpected Companion
As airline staff called their attention to the overweight bag, the couple cooperated, opening it for inspection. That’s when movement caught their eyes.
To their amazement, a tiny face peeked out from Jared’s boot. Their senior Chihuahua, Icky, had somehow hidden herself inside the luggage without anyone noticing.
Jared was stunned, trying to process the improbable sight.
“You know it’s going to be an epic trip to Vegas when you get to the airport to check your bags….6lbs overweight, and out pops a chihuahua from your boot!! Unreal!” Jared wrote in his Facebook post.
Though surprising, anyone familiar with Icky could see this was classic behavior for her.
“We were dumbfounded and flat shocked and embarrassed, to be honest. She loves to burrow in our laundry baskets, closet, blankets, wherever she can get nice, warm and comfy, and on that day, I guess she chose our suitcase we had left open with clothes in it for hours,” Jared told FOX 29 News Philadelphia.
Airport staff quickly saw the humor and charm in the situation rather than cause for concern.
Help From a Kind Stranger
With the flight soon to depart, Jared and Kristi faced a problem: Icky wasn’t scheduled to travel, and there was no time to return her home.
That’s when Cathy, an airline employee, noticed the little stowaway. She was charmed by Icky and offered to care for her until the couple returned. Jared and Kristi were immensely relieved.
“Shout out to Cathy with #southwestairlines for her awesome customer service!! She offered to watch Icky until we got back!! Let’s go!!” Jared wrote in the post.
Moments later, family friends arrived at the airport to collect Icky and take her safely home.
Though slightly exasperated at their clever Chihuahua, the couple made sure to say their goodbyes before continuing their trip.
Ultimately, Jared and Kristi were grateful for the twist of fate. Had the suitcase not been flagged, they might never have discovered Icky nestled quietly inside.
