Alfie the Dalmatian has been missing in St Marys for nine days, and his pawrents are doing everything they can to bring him home.
He escaped from a local veterinary clinic on May 27 after having surgery. He had fresh stitches and allegedly still had an IV catheter in his leg when he ran away.
A search effort has ensued since, with the Facebook group, ‘Alfie the Dalmatian Rescue’ racking up 415 members.
The last confirmed sighting was on Thursday, May 29 on Debrincat Avenue, North St Marys.
Members of the group have theorised Alfie may be hiding in shrubbery. A thermal drone search of surrounding bushland has been conducted, but the density of the shrub and thermal signature of kangaroos impacted the search.
An admin of the group has provided advice for Alfie’s capture.
“As Alfie is in flight/survival mode, we ask that you do not chase him. The best chance of him being secured is by his owners,” wrote the Facebook user.
“Do not clap, whistle, call his name or leave food anywhere. The food stations are being managed by the owners.”
If anyone spots Alfie, they are asked to keep a distance, avoid eye contact, note the exact location, and take a photo.
The best number to call if found is 0449 533 809.
Ally Hall
Ally Hall joined the Weekender in 2024, and focuses on entertainment and community stories. She's a graduate of the University of South Australia and has previously worked as a Video Journalist with Southern Cross Austereo and as a News Reader with Australian Radio Network.