arslion / Flickr

There are many harrowing tales of canines surviving the unthinkable. When natural disasters happen, we often focus on the human toll. The impact is often far greater as many beloved pets are unexpectedly separated from their families – or worse. The following true stories feature 12 lucky dogs who managed to make it in the midst of a natural disaster.

1. Lost Dog Survives Japan Tsunami only to be Washed Out to Sea

A medium sized canine was rescued after drifting on the roof of a house that had been swept out to sea. Japan Coast Guard members retrieved the lost dog, who was in reasonably good condition considering that the unnamed mutt spent weeks floating alone on debris.