Fireworks spook Morningside Cockapoo but community rallies to find him ‘cowering’ behind plant pot after 3 hour search

A community rallied to help find a dog who sped off in fright after a burst of fireworks in part of Edinburgh last night.

Murphy, the Cockapoo, was out walking with his owner Liam Kerley early yesterday evening when he was spooked by the loud noise and fled towards Braidburn Valley Park.

Mr Kerley’s wife, Amanda, published an appeal on social media which was shared more than 100 times, sparking a search effort from concerned locals to find their 18-month old pet.

The couple, with the help of a neighbour, looked down side streets and under cars for about three hours before being reunited with their dog - after one woman shared pictures in another local Facebook group of Murphy cowering behind a plant pot in her Comiston Springs garden.

Murphy the Cockapoo.

Speaking to the Edinburgh Evening News, Mr Kerley said: “I was relieved to have him back as the longer the time he was away, the more worried we were, especially as he is still young.

“But social media really showed its worth and mobilised a community of people.”

The 39-year-old said it was fortunate his cream coloured cockapoo wasn’t hit by a vehicle as he crossed a couple of roads to get to his hiding spot at the other side of the park.

Mr Kerley added: “This is the second year we have had a dog and, sadly, it has brought home how much of an impact they (fireworks) can have on animals.”

It comes after the Evening News reported today how a seach party was launched for a Cockapoo puppy which bolted in fright from fireworks in the Fauldburn Park area last night.

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