'Praying For A Miracle': Family Still Searching For Dog Lost In Storm

CUTCHOGUE, NY — A family in Cutchogue is searching frantically for their dog Zina, who was lost during Saturday night's heavy thunderstorm.

But they are grateful for the help of a caring community.

“I'm overwhelmed by the show of community support. It has been amazing,” Lynn McCaffery Stevens of Cutchogue said Sunday night. “She was seen a few places, but by the time I or my family got there she was gone. I just got home from canvassing all the sights again — but it is too dark now. I have turned on all lights and left her favorite blanket with food and water on the porch. Praying for a miracle.”

Zina was lost in Saturday night's fierce storm.

“Last night, our pup slipped out of her collar and took off after the first clap of thunder,” Stevens said, adding that her dog went missing from Alvahs Lane. “She is very scared of storms and still has not been found. If you see her, please contact me.”

Stevens posted on Facebook, saying that Zina, “my baby,” was missing and asking for help. “Zina can be shy and friendly,” she wrote. “She is a very lovable dog. She responds to her name and loves to be pet. If everyone could please keep an eye out — my family and I appreciate it.”

Stevens' daughter Cassie also posted on social media, pleading for the public's help.

Zina, Stevens said, is a medium-size mixed breed, about 50 pounds, and around 8 years old.

“She was a rescue to me,” she said. “She is a love, but does not willingly go to strangers. She is so scared of storms that she slipped her collar and disappeared. She could be hiding in a garage.”

Her family has contacted all their neighbors, who are searching, too, she said.

Zina means everything to her family, Stevens said: “Zina joined our family more than five years ago due to a re-homing situation. She fit perfectly as a companion for our other dog at the time,” she said. “When he crossed the Rainbow Bridge, she was heartbroken, as we were. She became our everything. She loves belly rubs and hanging on the front porch, especially when I have a coffee in hand. She really listens to you when you have good and bad days. And she's always happy for a hug. I don't know what to say — we just want to find her safely.”

If you see Zina, call 631-682-6598 or email Lemcstevens@yahoo.com.