A GROUP of people across Southampton have been left "heartbroken" after the dog they share went missing.

Clios ran off in the early hours of Friday in the Weston area and has since been spotted walking with a man in Woolston and Bitterne, according to her owners.

The two-year-old pocket bully belongs to four people and spends her time in different homes.

Co-owner Courtney Malone, 23, said they are all “stressed and worried” about Clios.

She said: “She got out the front door and I didn’t notice for nearly 15 minutes, but I was out there searching at 1am and the police came out too.” 

Courtney said her two young children “love Clios to bits” adding: “she’s an amazing dog, the perfect family pet. She's so great with my five-year-old and my three-year-old.

"She's so gentle and we all miss her. My kids would be heartbroken without her."

The owners are offering a £1,000 reward to "anyone who brings our baby home".

Friends and strangers alike have been supporting the appeal by sharing missing posters and taking part in searches.

Courtney said: “People I don’t even know have come up and said they are looking for her. Absolutely loads of people have come out and helped.  

“People have said they have seen her around Newtown Road and in Bitterne. We just want to get her back.” 

A Hampshire police spokesperson said officers received a report on Monday from a member of the public who has been given information about the dog that is missing from the Southampton area.

The RSPCA has advice for owners to prevent pets going missing.

A spokesperson said: “We'd encourage all dog owners to take extra precautions to protect their pooches from thieves. 

“This can be done by neutering, ensuring they are microchipped with up-to-date contact details registered, and wearing a collar with contact details on it. 

“We’d also advise that owners never leave their pets tied up outside shops or alone in cars, ensure their gardens are secure with gates locked, and ensure their pet has a good recall and doesn’t stray too far when off-lead on walks. 

“Anyone who suspects their dog may have been stolen should immediately alert police, contact their microchip company to register their pet as stolen, and inform local rescue groups, vets, dog walkers, and neighbours.” 

BlueCross has a Pet Bereavement Support Service that takes calls from owners who are missing their pets.

If you have any information or have found Clios, call 101. 

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