Almost a month has passed since fire consumed Durrol House, a 117-year-old hill station on Mount Macedon.
But the hope of finding a loyal 15-year-old dog missing since the blaze lives on.
Efforts to reunite Sienna, the chocolate brown Lagotto Romagnolo poodle, with her 96-year-old owner, Karin Mackinnon, have been ongoing since their home was destroyed on July 11.
“It’s just snowballed, really,” said one of Mrs Mackinnon’s former carers, Wendy Wright.
She said up to 50 people were out looking for Sienna after a number of reported sightings.
She said tracking dogs picked up Sienna’s scent on August 4 at Middle Gully Road in Macedon.
Those leading the search are hopeful Sienna is headed home.
Ms Wright said Sienna would arrive home to find a kennel containing an item of
Mrs Mackinnons and a bowl of food.
A gardener regularly visits the property and would be able to let the family know the dog had returned.
Ms Wright said one of Mrs Mackinnon’s sons, Andrew, had also been out searching for the dog.
“I’m convinced we’ll find her,” she said.
Sienna’s story has travelled, prompting offers of help from far and wide.
Ms Wright said she was grateful for people’s generosity.
More than 30 firefighters and 10 appliances turned out to the fire, which was believed to be caused by a burning log rolling out of one of the many fireplaces in the house.
– Bendigo Advertiser
