‘Substantial amount’ offered for missing Labrador

A HEARTBROKEN local lady has issued a fresh appeal for help concerning the whereabouts of her beloved dog who has been missing since November – and she has offered a ‘substantial award’ for her four-legged friend’s safe return.

Fighting back the tears, an emotional Heather Colhoun explained how ‘Teddie’ – “a teddy bear in every way” – went missing during a walk at the Swinging Bridge area of Newtownstewart.

It is likely that the female chocolate Labrador, who has been micro-chipped, and who bears a small scar on her stomach after being spayed, is still either wandering the Victoria Bridge, Sion Mills or Strabane areas in search of food, or has been adopted by another family.

Either way, all Heather longs for is the company of her beloved pet again.

“Teddie was my world,” Heather, who lives in the townland of Killyclooney, between Ballymagorry and Dunamanagh, described. “She is such a loving dog; a playful dog, who went along with everything her friend, Tilly, the golden Cocker Spaniel did.

“My husband, Thomas and I have no children, so Teddie and Tilly are like children to us. They are very special members of our family.”

Heather added that Teddie, who will turn one this February 22, has hazel eyes, and is of a friendly, placid and shy nature.

“I feel, deep down, that somebody has taken Teddie home, and is keeping her as their pet,” she added. “But I don’t care if that has been the case. If my dog can be returned to me, I won’t ask any questions; there will be no repercussions; I won’t inform the police; and I will give the person as much money as they ask for.

“I just want my dog to be returned safe and sound,” Heather pleaded. “Please help me bring Teddie home.”

• If you have seen Teddie, or know of her whereabouts, please contact Heather on 07766306236. All information and help is gratefully received.