Family offers reward for beloved dog Ash

Have you seen this dog?

A Tauranga family are hoping members of the public will help them find something precious to them.

The Purchase family were driving on State Highway 2, near the Domain Rd roundabout in Papamoa on Sunday morning when their dog, Ash, fell off the back of their ute.

Sue Purchase said the dog was bought for her 16-year-old step-daughter Kate about two and a half years ago, to help her cope with the loss of her mother, who died in a car crash about five years ago.

"Ash was really special to us," Mrs Purchase said.

"We're all devastated. Kate has spent so much time with Ash.

"She was animal-mad and has spent the past couple of years doing absolutely everything with him."

To add to Kate's bad luck, she fell from a horse yesterday and was taken to Tauranga Hospital with a suspected broken pelvis.

Mrs Purchase said as soon as they knew Ash had fallen from the ute, they turned around to look for him.

"He has either been picked up or he bolted off," she said.

Mrs Purchase said Ash was a border collie and is very obedient but could be timid around strangers.

The family is willing to offer a reward for Ash's safe return.

If you have seen Ash or know where he is call 0800 253 253.