Hunt for George brings out the best in NI folk

During the half-term break Lurgan Junior High School teacher Jenny’s rescue dog, George, escaped from their caravan at Portrush.

He made his dash for freedom on the morning of Tuesday 27th October.

Jenny explains: “George got out when a gust of wind blew the door of the caravan open and he dashed off.

“He was seen all over the Portrush area on Tuesday but by the time the family arrived at each sighting, George had moved on.” Jenny shared George’s great escape immediately on social media but she was unprepared for the response she received.

“Within a few hours my post had been shared nearly 1,500 times. Strangers were contacting me to say they were searching for George,” she said.

Soon news of George had gone viral and people from all over Northern Ireland were sharing his ‘missing’ poster online.

“I was receiving message of support and encouragement, together with offers to search for George nearly every hour of the days that followed,” said Jenny. “People were out searching on Tuesday until midnight and beyond. I was stunned at the lengths people went to in order to try and find my cheeky wee terrier.”

A coordinated search for George took place on Friday around the Portrush and Portstewart areas.

Hundreds of animal lovers from all around NI came together to search for George.

“I am overwhelmed by the kindness of complete strangers and of family and friends who joined us in searching for George on Friday,” said Jenny. “Teams of searchers scoured from Portstewart to Bushmills checking for George. We even had three drone aerial photographers who volunteered their services and searched from on-high for our boy.”

“The Covid virus has been such a difficult time for NI and many have struggled through this terrible experience. However, I have been blown away by the sheer compassion and generosity of all who have given their time to help look for George. People seemed to have found a shared compassion during this pandemic and have pulled together to reach out to my wee dog!”

Sadly, there has been no sign of George and Jenny is at a loss what has happened to her beloved Schnauzer-cross.

“I got George three and a half years ago from Almost Home Animal Rescue, Moira. He is a dearly-loved companion. I am appealing for anyone who may have lifted George around the North Coast area last Tuesday - they may not realise we are desperate to find him - please get in touch via our FB Page “Help Find George” - perhaps you live locally and could check your garden, outhouses or sheds for any signs of him sheltering during our recently awful weather?

“I posted on our FB page “In a world where you can be anything, be kind”. I have truly experienced the kindness of NI people this week. My sincere thanks to all who reached out either online or in person!”