Desperate search for missing Fern a much loved dachshund

The search party worked in socially distanced groups but there were no sightings.

Desperate owner Tracy O’Neill is appealing for anyone with any information or cctv or dash-cam footage of the area to get in touch in the hope of being reunited with six-year-old dachshund Fern.

Fern, who is mainly tan in colour, was staying in Abbey Village on the outskirts of Bolton for a few days when she slipped her harness after being frightened by boys on bikes and ran into the fields behind the cricket pitch in Bolton Road.

Desperate search for missing Fern a much loved dachshund

The 11-year-old daughter of the family who she was staying with had been walking Fern just an hour into her moving in.

Fern’s owner, Mrs O’Neill, aged 51, said her son, Jacob aged 13 and 10-year-old daughter Grace were devastated to learn of Fern’s disappearance.

“We are just hoping to have some news soon,” said Mrs O’Neill, a dog groomer from Adlington who hopes drivers may have seen Fern travelling to and from Bolton along Bolton Road.

She may well have moved out of the area so any possible sightings will be invaluable.

Desperate search for missing Fern a much loved dachshund

Fern is a nervous dog and particularly afraid of men and boys.

“I am so grateful to everyone who has helped and continues to help us. We just need Fern home safely,” said Mrs O’Neill who is out night and day trying to find her.

Anyone with any information is asked to ring 07980652002.

A substantial reward is being offered.