Almost two months after their English Staffy, Matilda, went missing while taking a walk on their 7 000-hectare farm in Patensie, the family have continued to search for their beloved dog, and the reward has been increased to R15 000.
As previously reported by Kouga Express, Bianca Eke said that her grandfather had taken care of the two dogs, Matilda and Rigby, on Tuinskloof, their farm in Patensie, while her parents, Kevin and Bev, travelled to New Zealand recently.
After the two dogs left for a walk along the farm on January 30, Rigby returned without Matilda.
The family began frantically searching for their beloved dog and explored various avenues, such as walking thousands of steps in the bush on their 7 000-hectare farm, using thermal drones, making posters, and making use of an animal communicator.
“I suspect that Matilda might have gone looking for me and my husband after we left for New Zealand in January, but instead of returning home after an hour as she usually does, she might have gotten lost,” said Bev.
When Kevin and Bev returned from New Zealand in February, they continued the search for Matilda and have tried “absolutely everything”.
Anonymous donor
Now, almost two months after Matilda went missing, in addition to the family’s R5 000 reward, she said that an anonymous donor has donated R10 000 as a reward.
In addition to offering a reward, the donor also recently placed a full-page advertisement in Kouga Express, to further spread the word about Matilda.
“It has been the most awful time without Matilda. It has been a terrible experience,” said Bev.
After speaking to a different animal communicator, who goes by the name Aly, she said it was suggested that she place an animal catch box in the nearby river where Matilda and Rigby enjoyed spending time swimming.
“I placed Matilda’s blanket and our clothing inside the catch box, in the hope that the scent will attract her,” said Bev.
In addition, she said they attached a bright solar light to the catch box which Matilda is familiar with, since they have similar lights in their garden.
Bev said they have continued checking on the catch box, but have still seen no sign of Matilda.
She said that they have also spoken to at least 12 sniffer dog owners but received no assistance, since most sniffer dogs are not trained to search for dogs.
Furthermore, they have embarked on multiple walks with help from local farmers and their employees.
She said that they missed having their beloved dog at home, describing her as “the most delightful little girl” who is so different from other dogs.
“Matilda is fun, funny, courageous, and brave. Both she and Rigby are adventurous and enjoy playing outdoors,” said Bev.
She said they hope that if Matilda has left their property that farmers or people nearby will recognise her and bring her home.
Bev is also hoping that the reward will be further encouragement for people to bring her home.
For more information, contact Bev Eke on 082 577 0214 or Bianca Eke on 074 889 9315.
