Fears for sick dog taken from Melbourne home by stranger

A man has renewed his appeal for help locating a sick pet dog taken from his girlfriend’s home in Collingwood, Melbourne.

James Fitzgerald told 9news.com.au 11-month-old King Charles Spaniel Ethel was taken from outside the Easey Street property on January 31.

He said he is concerned for Ethel’s wellbeing, as she suffers from dry eyes and requires regular medical care.

CCTV recently released by a neighbour has revealed an unidentified man leading the dog away from the property at 10.17am.

Mr Fitzgerald said he believes Ethel’s disappearance was not a premeditated theft but rather an act of opportunism, the dog having escaped after the landlord left several doors open during an inspection.

Ethel was wearing a collar at the time of her disappearance and has been microchipped.

Mr Fitzgerald is offering a cash reward for the dog’s safe return and has asked for anyone with information about Ethel’s whereabouts to contact him via email.