A five-month-old Shih Tzu named Monte has been reunited with his family after surviving seven days alone in the harsh Southern Utah desert.

Monte ran away during a thunderstorm while camping with his owners, Ingrid and Donni Krans. The family searched for days and left out his bed, treats and eventually their other dog, Maggie, to help guide him home.

Just as the family was preparing to leave, they heard a bark. Monte suddenly appeared at their camper—dehydrated and underweight, but alive.

Despite facing extreme heat and predators including coyotes and mountain lions, Monte is now recovering and getting back to his playful self.

abc4.com