Dog missing. What do I say to children?

[MildDrPepperAddiction]

Our dog has been missing since last night. The children haven't noticed yet and think she's in the garden in her little house.

They're 5 & 2. What do I say? When should I tell them she's missing? I keep hoping we'll find her.

I think you just have to tell them the truth?

Have you put her. dogLost, local FB groups?

Hope she comes back.

Yes to fb but didn't know about doglost. I'll do that now. Thank you

Agree, you have to tell them the truth.

Notices everywhere and get in touch with all the local vets and your local dog warden; apologies if you've already done all that.

I hope you find her soon.

Is she microchipped?
Ideas to contact: police, dog warden, RSPCA and other local shelters, Gumtree and search "lost dog my area" for local websites.
Hope you get her back soon.

God, so sorry, must be awful.

Whereabouts are you? Can you say what sort of dog she is and where she's missing from?

Thank you so much everyone. Despite many hours clocked up driving around by DH and I she arrived home herself. No idea where she's been, but at least she's safe and well.

So pleased she's back safe!

In future though, make sure the garden is secure and do not ever leave your dog unattended!

Your op 'think she's in the garden in her little house' suggests she is regularly unsupervised in the garden.
Aside from the very real risk of being stolen she could also escape as you've discovered and who knows what then could happen?

Your lucky she wasn't hit by a car or stolen.

Oh wonderful. So glad she's back safe and sound.