THE HEARTBROKEN owners of missing dog Quigley have thanked the people of Bucks for their kindness and support.

The nine-year-old cross-breed has still not been found since his disappearance six months ago on Watlington Hill in Oxfordshire.

Recent sightings of the beloved pet have been reported in the Fingest and Frieth area where a team of volunteers and Pet Detectives will now concentrate their search.

Devastated owner, Holly Rizzuto Palker, described searching for Quigley as a full-time job and emotional rollercoaster, but with the family preparing to move home to America this July, the hunt has become more important than ever. She said: "We don’t want people to think because we’re moving back to The States we’re giving up on Quigley because we’re definitely not. Team Quigley are taking over.

"Psychologically it’s difficult to think we have to leave the country and we don’t have closure, we still don’t know what happened to Quigley.

"The kids (aged three and six) are still so upset, they’re always asking me whether he’s alive or dead, it’s very tough."

Holly would like to thank everyone who has contacted her with information about Quigley and particularly all the volunteers who have helped search for her beloved pet.

"The people of Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire have been so helpful and kind investing in Quigley’s story, it’s really helped me a lot.

"I’ve had so many helpers along the way, too many to name which has been something really positive to come out of this experience."

Quigley is described as having black patches and spots all over his coat. His markings look like that of a German Short Haired Pointer or Catahoula Leopard Dog, but he is a little bit smaller than a collie. His face and paws have tan mixed in and has three black spots on his posterior.

A large reward is being offered for his safe return, or news leading to it.

Anyone with information should call 07770 751631 or 0844 8003220. For more information go to http://www.doglost.co.uk/dog_blog.php?dogId=35889&status=lost.