Mystery of runaway Dartmoor dog as dozens search two weeks on

The runaway Alsatian is still missing without a trace
-Credit: (Image: Michaela Hickerman)


Dozens are still searching for a missing Alsatian that escaped on Dartmoor more than two weeks ago. Teddy's owners have not given up hope of finding him and have now set up a dedicated Facebook group in the hope someone may recognise him.

Teddy, who has been described as a "nervous" rescue dog, went missing after jumping out of his owner's car between Widecombe in the Moor and the Haytor Rocks area (near the Holwell farm) on Sunday, November 3.

There have been no confirmed sightings of the much-loved pet, although dozens have been searching for him. A 'potential sighting' of Teddy was reported near Newton Abbot, but this has not yet “been proven or unproven”.

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Search and rescue scoured the area last week, but there was no sign of Teddy. Michaela Hickerman, Teddy’s owner, says she is worried sick and wants to get her pet home. She has left some of her clothing in the area, in an attempt to try and bring the lost dog back with her scent.

Michaela's friend, Louise Heath, posted a social media update on behalf of the family. Louise wrote (on November 16): “As it stands, we have still not found Teddy.

"Potential, but still unconfirmed sighting on Wednesday November 6 near East Swallerton Gate Farm (B3357, Newton Abbot TQ13 9XQ) - this hasn’t been proven or unproven.

“Further than that, I am afraid there have been no sightings or concrete information. We have had extensive land coverage by walkers/drivers and drones in the last 14 days (not thermal drone, yet!)

“Whilst no news isn’t great, we all remain hopeful that Teddy is lying low, has access to water, food sources and is waiting to be found. We remain hopeful that Teddy will be found and are truly, truly grateful to everyone who has searched, continues to search, shares our updates/raises awareness and/or provides expert advice. We do now approach a colder spell and this does bring concerns for both Teddy and those searching.”

Teddy reportedly “ran into a field of sheep” before disappearing into the moors over two weeks ago which has led to concerns from some people for moorland livestock - and wildlife. Teddy is chipped, he’s “nervous of people, particularly men, but friendly and chilled nature”.

He is described as an “Alsatian-type breed” - tall, slim and long, he has a long tail and floppy ears, he is black and tan coloured. There are more planned drone searches for him in the coming days, however it’s understood that people do need “necessary permits” before flying drones in the area.

If anyone spots missing Teddy, please contact Michaela on 07957222094.

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