News of a pup lost in the woods has captured hearts in a community that now is going to extraordinary lengths to find Freo.
The nearly-two-year-old German short- haired pointer went missing in early August in a Macedon pine plantation, when she and another family dog ran off.
Although her family, from Toorak, found their other dog, they’ve not been able to track down Freo.
Owner Melanie Hay went on the Facebook page of German short-haired pointers Australia looking for assistance, and was met with a rush of kindness.
The online community was mobilised to spread the word and, within days, a Finding Freo page was set up, with 300 people joining in the first 48 hours.
Searchers even camped out, using drones for surveillance, and volunteer Jessica Thomas has called for more people to help with flyer drops around the Macedon Ranges.
“Dogs don’t get lost often in the bush … they normally get lost in suburbia, so we’ve had to go the extra mile for this search,” Ms Thomas said. “Freo’s story has captured all of our hearts.
“We’re being led by a vet, and that’s helped us understand some of the behaviour she’s exhibiting.
“Freo is incredibly affectionate, with high energy, but she’s very loving and she’s no doubt very scared.
“We’re hoping she’s been able to look out for herself out there. It’s been 12 weeks, so we think that she might be going a bit wild now. Although Freo is a friendly dog, she will more than likely be hungry and frightened.”
Fellow volunteer and Facebook campaign manager Melanie Pittard established a GoFundMe crowdfunding campaign, which to date has raised more than $4000 to hire equipment to find Freo.
“There have been sightings so we know she’s alive, but she is skinny, scared and in need of urgent help,” Ms Pittard said. “We also want some funds for possible vet bills and even a possible reward.
“She’s been out there alone for too long … we need to find her.”
Ms Pittard says any leftover funds will go to German short-haired pointer rescue groups.
If you see Freo, call Kat on 0434 987 757.
To donate: click here
