Authorities are seeking the assistance of the public in locating a missing police dog in the vicinity of Loch Ness. PD Fergie, a three-and-a-half-year-old black and tan German Shepherd, disappeared during a routine walk near Polmaily House on Sunday, June 30.

According to Chief Inspector Gordon Fotheringham, the lead of the Police Dog Unit for the North, PD Fergie’s sudden disappearance is highly unusual. “This is a regular walking route for PD Fergie,” he stated, “and for her to run off is out of character.” Concerns are mounting that she may be injured and unable to respond when called.

Search efforts are currently underway, with officers combing the area. The public is urged to report any sightings of PD Fergie. However, it’s important to note that she may not react to people in the same way as other dogs due to her police training. Chief Inspector Fotheringham advises anyone who encounters her to remain calm, stand still, and engage with her in a normal manner by speaking to her. Barking is a typical behaviour for a trained police dog.

In an effort to prevent any further distress, authorities emphasise that running toward or away from PD Fergie is not recommended. Instead, individuals who spot her should immediately call the police at 101, quoting reference number 0056 from Monday, July 1, 2024.