Owner Heartbroken Over Missing Dog In Bridgewater

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — A heartbroken Bridgewater mother is desperately trying to find the family's missing dog before her children return home from vacation.

It was the second day of the family's vacation when Bear, a two-year-old black Labradoodle, went missing.

On Sunday at 7:30 p.m., Bear was being walked by a dog sitter on Sunset Lane and Darren Drive near Bernards Township.

"He saw a fox, bolted, and ripped the lease right out of her hand," said Lisa Folkerts.

Folkerts, who lives in the Bradley Gardens section of Bridgewater with her family, was filled with sadness and trying to hold back tears as she spoke with Patch pleading for anyone to help find their family dog.

"He needs to come home before the kids come home from vacation," said Folkert.

Bear bolted off into the woods in the area of Sunset Lane but a caller reported seeing him on Wednesday morning between Mt. Bethel Road and Stirling Road in Warren Township, said Folkert.

The red leash and harness are believed to still be attached with tags that have the family's phone number of 570-369-2005.

"Day 4 without my sweet boy!" said Folkert in a social media post. "At this point he may be going into survival mode, and run away when called for, fearing humans."

Folkert is asking anyone who spots Bear to call her immediately. Do not chase him or call out his name as it may spook him.

To report a sighting call or text Folkert at 570-369-2005.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.

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