$1k reward for missing family pet

A rural Wanganui couple are so desperate to find their missing dog that they are offering a $1000 reward.

Dray is an 8-year-old huntaway/ Newfoundland cross. He went missing from their Fordell home some time on Saturday night.

He is always loose on their fenced section and has a choice of two kennels to sleep in.

"There was no reason whatever to tie him up, because he never ever went anywhere," Liz Cullen said.

She and husband Peter realised Dray was missing when he was not on the property at 9am yesterday. Since then they have been scouring the neighbourhood for any sign of him.

They have also informed police and intend to get Federated Farmers to enter Dray into their database, in case thieves try selling their dog to another farmer.

Dray was both a working sheep and cattle dog and a beloved family pet. They fear he has been stolen and are desperate to get him back before he comes to any harm.

He has never wandered off the property before and Mrs Cullen said he was so obedient that he would come to a call when anywhere in the vicinity.

He was not really a guard dog either.

"He would do a couple of woof-woofs but he would be wagging his tail."

Of a friendly and happy disposition, their dog would have been easy to steal.

"He was always waiting to hop into the farm truck to get to the farm. He loves everyone and he loves going in cars."

Mrs Cullen said it was heartbreaking to think their beloved pet had been stolen.

"Our main concern is getting him home safely." The Cullens can be contacted on 06 342 7541.