Barking heard during search for missing therapy dog in the Highlands

People searching for a missing therapy dog in the Highlands have reported hearing barking in the area where he disappeared.

Louie, adopted as a therapy dog for his owner Louise Manson’s daughter, who lives with epilepsy, ran off after slipping his lead near Steall Falls in Glen Nevis on May 26.

Louise has since led an “emotional and tireless” campaign to find her pet, supported by a Facebook group with over 1,200 members.

Fort William resident Iona Macdonald also launched a GoFundMe campaign to support the search for the Golden Retriever, with over £2,690 being raised, smashing its original £2,000 goal.

The search has been backed by volunteers, and Louise said the family has left clothes and food out in the hope that Louie will catch the scent.

In an update shared on the Finding Louie Facebook group, the mother said that barking has been heard – indicating the Golden Retriever is nearby.

She wrote: “More barking has been heard yesterday, but it could be coming from anywhere. Which is a positive. We have been given other positive information, which indicates he’s 100% alive yesterday.

“We were out again last night at Steall Falls until late. Clothes are out, food has been left, and a wildlife camera has been set up in the hope we can narrow down his location and get him home.

“We think with the falls being so busy, he’s scared and in hiding during the day.

“We have been told, shouting his name may make him want to hide further away.

“So its a case of just seeing where he is and trying to tempt him. We are confident we will get him home…its just taking longer than hoped.

“Again, thank you for your help, messaging, searching, and all your kind words. It’s all helping so much at this time.”