It started like any ordinary day. I had a full checklist in my head: pack a bag, grab a charger, turn off the lights. I let the family dog, Diesel, into the backyard for a quick break before heading out.
In the rush of getting out the door, I forgot one important detail: I never closed the side door or brought Diesel back in.
Hours later, while out with my family, I got a text from a neighbor. It was a screenshot of a Facebook post from someone who had found a dog running loose in our area — that included a picture of Diesel.
I froze.
We quickly contacted the good Samaritan and drove straight to meet her. Thankfully, Diesel was OK — shaken up but safe.
When we got home, I pieced together what happened. Not only had I left the door open, but Diesel had dug under our fence to escape.
I’ve had him for nearly a decade, and I’ve never experienced anything like this. If we’d had a camera in the backyard connected to our ADT security system, I could have intervened sooner. I could have asked a neighbor to bring him inside. I could have, would have, should have.
For years, I told myself, “We live in a safe neighborhood. We’re fine with just a camera in the front.”
But the truth is, that even in safe neighborhoods, things happen.
One simple fix I’ve made since that day is updating my app notifications to alert me anytime the backdoor is left open. It’s a small step that gives me a lot of peace of mind.
Here are a few additional upgrades I’m making at home to avoid another close call:
- Installing an outdoor Google Nest Cam in my backyard
This camera can tell the difference between a person, vehicle and animal. If Diesel were ever left out again, it would know (but trust me, he won't be). It also offers 24/7 live view, three hours of event video history,* live HD video with HDR, night vision, Talk and Listen, and IP54 weather resistance.
- Upgrading to a Yale Smart Lock**
My back door still has a traditional lock, but it’s 2025. I’m adding a Yale smart lock so I can lock and unlock the door using the ADT+ app, whether I’m home or not.
- Setting up smart lights with Google Nest Hub Max integration
If something looks off in the backyard, I can brighten or dim ADT smart lights using my voice or the ADT+ app. Just say “Hey Google” to start.† It adds a layer of visibility and control I didn’t have before.
- Doing a smart home checkup
It’s easy to assume technology “just works,” but even smart systems need occasional maintenance. I’m checking all my cameras, cleaning the lenses, charging the batteries, and reviewing their coverage to make sure any vulnerable corners are protected.
- Letting go of the “it won’t happen to me” mindset
Because it nearly did and I got lucky.
Your home, your pets and your peace of mind matter. I’m grateful Diesel is OK, and I’ve made some smart changes to better protect us next time.
Google, Nest Cam, and Nest Hub Max are trademarks of Google LLC.
*Up to 3 hours recording. Learn more at g.co/nest/3hours
**Yale® is a registered trademark of Master Lock Company LLC and its affiliates.
† Voice control requires compatible devices.