Hamilton mum's plea after disabled son's beloved dog vanishes

Jan 21 2010 by Chris Clements, Hamilton Advertiser

THE family of a disabled schoolboy from Burnbank, Hamilton, have issued an appeal for help after his beloved chihuahua puppy disappeared at the weekend.

And the Broadhurst family believe seven-month-old Shadow, a black long-haired chihuahua, was stolen from their garden in Milton Street on Friday night.

Since her arrival, the puppy bitch has been a constant companion to nine-year-old Jack, who suffers from muscular dystrophy and uses a wheelchair.

Glenlee Primary School pupil Jack is “devastated” by the disappearance of Shadow and hopes Advertiser readers can help find her.

His aunt, Helen Gilmartin, bought Jack the puppy six months ago.

Said Helen: “I bought Jack the dog last year and it has been his little pal since. It was good for him to have the dog, as he has trouble walking.

“Shadow just sat in his lap and ran around him.

“They were constant companions.

“On Friday, she was let out the back garden and when they called her, she didn’t come back.

“We think someone has stolen her. Chihuahuas are a popular breed and can be quite expensive, so it’s possible someone has been walking past, saw Shadow in the garden, and just scooped her up.

“She’s very distinctive, so if you have seen her, you will instantly know.”

Jack’s parents, Trevor and Pauline, along with his older sisters Kirsty and Sasha, were consoling Jack.

Helen added: “He is absolutely heartbroken and desperate to get her back.

“The family have been everywhere looking for her and put posters up in the local shops offering a small cash reward in the hope that will make a difference to finding her.”

Added Helen: “At his sister’s wedding at the weekend, all he could do was talk about his wee dog Shadow.

“He has been doing so well recently, keeping his spirits up.

“However, this has been a major setback for him.

“We hope he gets her back soon and would be grateful for any help that readers can offer.”