A Brisbane woman has launched an extraordinary search operation to find her cherished British Cream dachshund who disappeared during a severe hailstorm, deploying thermal drones and hiring a specialist pet detective in her desperate quest.
Luna, a rare and valuable breed, escaped from her home on Kiriwina Street in Fig Tree Pocket's western suburbs on October 27, triggering an emotional and costly search mission that has consumed her owner's life.
The Desperate Hunt Intensifies
Pru Gillett, Luna's distraught owner, has taken significant time off work and invested approximately $4,000 in the search for her beloved companion. "She's my child. It's been really overwhelming," Ms Gillett confessed to local media. The dachshund holds special significance as her first dog, acquired after returning from living in Sweden.
The emotional toll has been so substantial that Ms Gillett admitted: "I haven't even been able to bear returning to my home in Newstead." Her dedication demonstrates the profound bond between owners and their pets.
Advanced Technology Joins the Search
The search has escalated to include cutting-edge technology, with Industrial Drone Services Australia deploying sophisticated drones equipped with sensitive thermal cameras. These £40,000 devices can distinguish between wildlife and domestic animals, scanning scrub and forest areas during cooler morning hours when warm-blooded creatures stand out against their surroundings.
Search teams have covered areas up to 3.5 kilometres from her father's property, utilising equipment capable of identifying the difference between wallabies, possums, and dogs. The operation has expanded to include volunteers using thermal telescopes, creating a comprehensive technological search network.
Community Support and Hopeful Signs
Ms Gillett's efforts have mobilised an impressive community response, with hundreds of volunteers distributing thousands of leaflets and daily search groups combing the area. Social media campaigns have generated hundreds of comments and likes, while a GoFundMe campaign raised an additional $1,000 to fund the thermal drone searches.
The involvement of a former police officer turned pet detective has provided professional insight, suggesting Luna wasn't stolen despite her substantial $5,500 value. Instead, experts believe the timid puppy may be hiding in dense bushland near creeks and parks.
Ms Gillett continues to monitor platforms like Gumtree for any sales listings and maintains daily contact with RSPCA and local councils. She has offered a $5,000 reward for Luna's safe return to herself or any veterinary practice.
The ordeal has drawn comparisons to Valerie, another miniature dachshund who survived 540 days missing on Kangaroo Island. "That story gives me hope," Ms Gillett said, clinging to the possibility of reunion. "Tonight, Luna might be outside, all alone in the dark, hungry and scared. I just want to bring her home."
