A British family residing in Dubai is fervently searching for their missing dog, Bolt, who was last spotted on the evening of Friday, October 4. A reward of Dh5,000 is being offered to anyone who can locate the pet, who bolted during an evening walk. The family had recently relocated to Jumeirah Heights the day prior to the incident and were taking a leisurely stroll when their son stumbled, inadvertently loosening his grip on the leash, allowing Bolt to escape. "He must have been frightened by the unfamiliar surroundings, as we had just moved from Jumeirah Parks the previous day," explained owner Jenny Gill, 49, in an interview with Khaleej Times. The canine, a mixed breed of medium size, is pure white and has been microchipped and neutered. He was last seen wearing a black harness with an orange lead ten days ago. Bolt was last observed on Friday evening, mere moments after his escape, on a four-way traffic lane of Al Khail Street around 8pm. He was seen near the intersection between Garn Al Sabkha Street and Ibn Battuta Mall.
The family, who have been residents of Dubai for the past eight years, have exhaustively searched for their missing pet. "We have disseminated information on social media, posted flyers on lamp posts, and even organized a search party," they shared. They have also contacted Dubai Municipality and veterinary clinics in the vicinity, in case anyone reported the dog missing. Unfortunately, during this distressing period, the family has encountered individuals attempting to exploit their situation. "One man phoned me claiming he had our dog and threatened to harm him," recounted Jenny. "Another person asserted they had found Bolt but refused to return him, insisting Bolt was now 'their dog.'" When Jenny requested proof, the man sent a close-up photo of white fur. Additionally, a woman purportedly running a search party was recommended to the family through a rescue service. "We had to pay Dh250, and so far, all she has done is message me once a day to say she’s 'close to getting information,'" Jenny added. Despite these challenges, numerous kind-hearted individuals have come forward to aid in the search for Bolt. Members of a WhatsApp group named 'Finding Bolt' have been utilizing the hashtag '#findingboltdubai' on social media platforms to spread awareness. "It touches me deeply that so many people, whom I’ve never met, are doing everything they can to find him. People even dedicated an entire evening to searching, sacrificing their own time for us," Jenny expressed.
Jenny, who discovered Bolt as a puppy wearing a superman outfit and wandering around Jumeirah Parks—her previous residence where she lived for four years—rescued the dog, whom she believes was either lost or abandoned. Residents with any information about the missing dog are urged to contact the family at 058-5260675. "My three children miss him dearly," the British expatriate shared.
