She's back! Five-day search for missing Lucy reaches happy ending

Monday 14 August 2023

After a five-day saga that had seen hundreds of people offer support and her owner fly home early from a family holiday, Lucy the dog returned home – a bit tired and rather thirsty, but otherwise in good shape.

The tale of the missing mutt captured the imagination of islanders since news was first shared last week about Lucy escaping from her temporary 'doggy day care' home while owners Peter and Sarah Stoten were on holiday in the Mediterranean.

While scores of people were actively involved in the search, many others offered their support and helped raise awareness via social media, with huge numbers of likes, shares and comments, particularly via the Lost Dogs in Jersey page on Facebook.

The happy ending to the story came on Saturday afternoon, less than 24 hours after Peter Stoten had landed back in Jersey from the family holiday in Corfu.

Pictured: Lucy is now resting at home with her owner, Peter.

Peter had joined the search near Long Beach on Friday evening, following a sighting earlier in the day.

He used clothing worn by members of the family in a bid to lay a scent for Lucy, but the next day there was a further sighting near Queen's Valley Reservoir and a short while later it was confirmed that Lucy was safe.

"Euphoria" was how Peter described the feeling of knowing the search had been successful. He said that Lucy had been panting and apparently somewhat dehydrated, but appeared to be otherwise fine.

He said: "She's got some hunting genes, so I don't think she went hungry, there are plenty of rabbits and pheasants around, it was the thought that she might have an accident on the road that we were most worried about.

"We are so fortunate to have Lucy back with us, safe and sound. The amount of support we have received during this brief but excruciating time has, and still continues to be, unbelievable."

Pictured: The quest to find Lucy went viral, with hundreds sharing posts on social media.

Members of the Lost Dogs group were described as "stalwarts" by Peter, who said: "They've been so dedicated, real angels in filtering information to ensure a focused search and positive conclusion – they are highly dedicated and do not appear to sleep."

Peter posted a long list of those he wished to thank for taking part in the search or offering support.

"It's time like this when Jersey really comes together as a community – it's been amazing," he added.

Sarah Stoten and the couple's children are due to arrive back from holiday later today when the family reunion will be complete.