The Pasco Sheriff’s Office has issued a call for public assistance after a family's dog went missing when their car was stolen in Port Richey. The black 2022 Mitsubishi Mirage, which had the dog inside, was taken from the Shallowford Drive area around 12:40 a.m. last Friday. While the vehicle has since been located, the whereabouts of the dog remain unknown.

The Sheriff's Office has released a description of the suspect, as obtained by ABC Action News, revealing they were wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt and shorts. It has not been disclosed as to why the dog was left inside a parked car during the early hours.

In a plea for help, the Pasco Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone with information about the incident to come forward. They can contact the PCSO tip line at 1-800-706-2488 and should refer to case number 24040604 as noted in a statement by the Tampa Free Press. Tips can also be submitted online for those who are inclined to do so.

Meanwhile, the local community has taken to social media to spread the word about the missing dog in hopes that someone might recognize it and provide information that leads to its safe return. The dog's photo, shared by WFLA, can be seen across various platforms as concerned citizens and dog lovers alike partake in the effort to reunite the pet with its family.