Locals rally to locate lost dog

A lost dog near Waitakaruru has brought together a community anxious to see it returned to its owner.
Around three weeks ago, a small, light-coloured dog was seen roaming around farmland in the Hauraki Plains.
Waitakaruru local Em Heffernan offered the use of some cages to try and catch it, but when no one responded, she took it upon herself to find the dog and return it to its owner – if one could be located.
But the dog has so far evaded any attempts of capture, and could roam between 5km-10km a day, Em told The Profile.
“I wake up in the night thinking about it,” she said, “but I think it’s going to be a slow process.”
Em owns two dogs herself and said so far, four people – one as far away as Ngaruawahia – are waiting to see if the lost dog is theirs.
She has enlisted the help of farmers and families along Canal West Rd and State Highway 25 – who are leaving food out for the lost dog – and said she appreciated all of the support from the community. She’s also contacted a dog tracker from Nelson.
“I think everybody wants a feel-good story at the end of it, and no one likes to see an animal alone out there,” she said. “But everybody is doing what they can… patience is key.”
DETAILS: The lost dog has been sighted along Canal West Rd, near Waitakaruru and Ngatea. If spotted, please do not chase. Report any sightings to the Facebook page: ‘Waitakaruru/Ngatea little lost dog sightings and updates’.