A pensioner from Weston-super-Mare has been left heartbroken after her dog, Monty, was taken from her car while she was briefly inside a store.
Pauline Farley had left Monty in her vehicle with the window slightly open during a short visit to The Range on September 6 between 3.30pm and 3.45pm. Upon returning, she discovered that the car window had been forced down and Monty was missing.
Lisa Dean, who runs Beauty’s Legacy, a national animal welfare charity focused on reuniting lost and stolen pets, described Pauline as “absolutely devastated.” Lisa added, “She feels very guilty for leaving him in the car, and is angry that someone has done this. She is extremely worried about Monty’s whereabouts and well-being. He is such a lovely little dog. The situation is utterly distressing; Pauline is in shock and deeply upset.”
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The community in Weston-super-Mare has rallied in support, with numerous volunteers and businesses aiding the search efforts. According to Lisa, “The local response has been phenomenal. Over 1,200 flyers have been distributed; residents are displaying posters in shops and posting flyers through letterboxes. A nearby chip shop has kindly offered to serve as a central hub for information sharing.”
Police are actively investigating the incident, with a crime reference number 52/26256389 assigned. Anyone with information is urged to contact Avon and Somerset Police, and anonymity will be assured. A reward is being offered for information leading to Monty’s safe return.
Lisa called on anyone who was near Gallagher Retail Park on Marchfields Way during the afternoon of September 6 to check dashcam footage or recall any unusual activity. Notably, a bus route stopping close to the retail park might have passed someone carrying a small dog without a lead.
She also appealed directly to the person who took Monty: “If you believed you were helping by removing a dog left in a car, please understand he was only unattended for a short time. The right thing now is to return him safely and confidentially.”