‘Hoping for the best’: Lara family enlists Geelong community in dog search

A Lara family has enlisted strangers in the search for their beloved pet dog, who ran away two months ago. Here’s how you can help.

The Walker family have started a Facebook page to enlist the community in helping to locate their lost dog, Gracie. Picture: Supplied

A Lara family is relying on the kindness of strangers to locate their beloved pet, who has been missing for two months and spotted in at least five suburbs.

The Walker family’s six-year-old Maremma cross beagle, Gracie, ran away when a family friend was looking after her in Belmont.

Robin Walker said the dog managed to jump one fence and dig under another before escaping into the wilds of Geelong.

That was on January 14, and Ms Walker started a Facebook page – Finding Gracie – to enlist help from the public in locating the animal, garnering more than 1300 followers.

“She’s beautiful,” she said.

Anyone who may spot Gracie is asked not to try to catch her, as she might run away, but instead contact the Walkers through the Facebook page. Picture: Supplied

“She’s the most placid dog in the world.

“Maremma’s are usually outback dogs … they’re nocturnal.

“They’re working dogs.

“Gracie’s never been like that because of the beagle (in her).”

Ms Walker said, though, that Gracie may just be enjoying the adventure until she is hopefully found by the community.

Ms Walker said the pup has been spotted in Belmont, Breakwater, along the Surf Coast Hwy, Marshall, Moolap, and Grovedale.

She said the family has notified the council and animal rescue group GAWS of the escapee, as well as local vets.

“(The community support) it’s been overwhelming,” she said.

“It’s beautiful how the page and everybody on it is behind us.

“They’re all trying so hard to help … Every tiny little bit helps.

“We’re hoping for the best.”

Anyone who spots Gracie is asked to stay back as she is quite timid and may run away.

Instead, they should contact the council or Ms Walker via the Facebook page.

For more information or to report a sighting of the pup visit facebook.com/groups/630370735756909/

Originally published as ‘Hoping for the best’: Lara family enlists Geelong community in dog search