BAKERSFIELD, Calif. - Earlier this week, 23ABC reported how a family hired a pet detective when their dog went missing.

After an exhaustive effort and thorough search, the Horton family is celebrating.

Brittney Horton has been on an emotional roller coaster ever since Ruca went missing last week, but now the ride is over after their beloved dog was returned.  

"I reached out and grabbed her out of that car, cried, held her and I am kind of in shock right now," said Brittney.

The family flooded the area with flyers and posters.  They even hired a pet search and rescue team to help assist in the search.

The family credits the efforts of the pet detectives and media coverage that brought Ruca home.

Ruca spent the last week in South Bakersfield off of Union Avenue.