Missing police dog 'could be injured' after running off during walk near Polmaily House by Loch Ness

Officers are searching for a police dog which may be hurt after being spooked by a deer whilst on a walk near Loch Ness.

PD Fergie was being walked north of Polmaily House around 10am on Sunday, when a deer bolted in front of her and she ran off.

Despite a search of the area she has not been seen since, and concerns growing that she may be injured.

Fergie is a black and tan three-and-a-half-year-old German Shepherd who is described as having a “friendly nature”.

Chief Inspector Gordon Fotheringham, Police Dog Unit lead for the north, said: “This is a regular walking route for PD Fergie and for her to run off is out of character. Concerns are growing that she may be injured and unable to respond when called.

“Searches are under way and officers are in the area. We are asking anyone who sees her to get in touch.

“PD Fergie is a trained police dog and while she has a friendly nature she may not react to the public in the same way that other dogs would.

“If you see her stand still and engage in a normal manner as you would with any dog by speaking to her. She may stand and bark and this is normal behaviour for a trained police dog.

“Our advice is not to run towards or away from PD Fergie under any circumstances. If you see her call us on 101, quoting reference number 0056 of Monday, July 1, 2024.”