A Cardiff woman whose dog was stolen by a drunk man in a park has been inundated with messages of support from as far as the USA.
Shelley, who prefers to remain anonymous in case of threats by the thief, was walking her dog Rocco in Pontcanna Fields when he was lured away by a man on March 1.
She said the man was clearly inebriated with either alcohol or drugs and made suggestive remarks towards her near the riding school on Western Avenue, Llandaff.
Despite Shelley trying to avoid conversation, the man began throwing a ball for the 13-month-old Staffordshire-Cross before starting to run away ad beckoning the dog to follow.
The worried owner of Rocco said: “I shouted at him to stop but he was running faster to the main road with Rocco following. They went so far ahead I couldn’t see them and then they ran into the trees.”
Fox red and white cross-breed Rocco suffers from a heart condition and needs daily medication. A Facebook campaign has now been set up to help find Rocco and over 650 people have shown their support.
Rocco’s owner has spoken of the enormous support from both the Cardiff community even as far afield as Scotland and the USA.
Shelley said: “I’m familiar with all the dog walkers and they’ve been incredibly supportive. Many people are anxious, particularly women.
“A massive amount of support and concern has come out of this dreadful, dreadful thing that’s happened. There’s an awful lot of kindness and community spirit, one woman came and spoke to me in tears.”
Writing on the online campaign group, Shelley said: “A piece of our family is missing and we want it back. My son is sick with worry and that’s all the motivation I need to carry on hoping, whatever it takes.”
She is offering a large reward for Rocco’s return but has been advised by police not to disclose the amount for fears of being targeted.
Police are continuing to keep a look out for Rocco amid fears he may now have been sold on. The family are checking local dog kennels and have contacted Cardiff Council to be on alert for any reports of dogs barking.
