OWNERS have appealed for help to track down their dog which has been missing for five days.

Cockapoo Bertie is a shy and timid dog, and often runs away if called or approached by strangers.

He went missing on Tuesday from Rottingdean, and the last sighting of him was in Telscombe.

Owner Siobhan Dodds and partner Zeki Atesli have launched a desperate search to find him.

Dr Atesli is a consultant working in the accident and emergency department at the Eastbourne District General Hospital, and has spent all his time away from the frontline out searching.

The Argus:

Siobhan said: "Bertie was last spotted in Telscombe, and we have had incredible help with people reporting sightings of him.

"People should not approach him or try to grab him, he is terrified and not at all streetwise.

"I fear he will have gone into hiding, but will be hungry and thirsty looking for food and water.

"If someone spots him, please don't approach him or call his name he will just get frightened. Please call me."

Siobhan said the couple have had Bertie for five years since he was a puppy.

She hopes dog walkers between Rottingdean and Peacehaven will keep an eye out and search under bushes and hiding places.

Anyone who sees Bertie is asked to call 07915 063272 or 07988 287891.