CANMORE – A dog missing after its owner’s vehicle was stolen while it was inside has reportedly been seen in the Lac Des Arcs area.
According to the dog’s owner James Darby, a call to the family indicated Seve the springer spaniel was picked up by an individual in the Exshaw area around 1:30 p.m. Monday (March 16) afternoon.
“We’ve had word that someone picked up a dog matching Seve's description about an a hour and bit ago and headed towards Canmore,” Darby said in a message to the Outlook.
“He [person who allegedly picked up Seve] was wearing a red top and in a black car. Since then we’ve heard nothing.”
The family dog went missing on March 11 after the Darby’s vehicle was stolen. Cochrane RCMP subsequently issued a press release about the Jeep Grand Cherokee being stolen in Bragg Creek with a dog inside.
“On March 11, 2020 Cochrane RCMP received a complaint of a theft of a 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Alberta Licence plate VNL421 from Bragg Creek Alberta,” the release from Cochrane RCMP stated.
“Inside the vehicle was the owner's Springer Spaniel Dog named Seve. Seve is white and black with a collar but no tags. Cochrane RCMP is requesting the public's assistance in returning Seve to his owner.”
The Jeep is also still missing.
"[If you see a person with a dog matching the description] try to identify him and then, call us or bylaw," Darby said.
"Approach only if possible and safe to do so. Seve is a very kind dog and should have no issue approaching humans."
Darby has been actively posting on his Facebook pleading for the safe return of the beloved family pet. In addition, the Darby family has also been actively fundraising for the Cochrane Humane Society in the midst of the ordeal.
“During the traumatic process of trying to locate our family’s pet dog Seve, we have been astonished by the amount of love and support we’ve received,” read one Facebook post from Darby.
“The thousands of messages and heart felt wishes have enabled us to stay positive and still believe he is out there somewhere.”
According to Darby’s Facebook, he’s so-far raised $735 of a $1,000 goal.
Those with information about Seve are asked to call Cochrane police at 403-851-8000, or Crime Stoppers Anonymously at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
