Family asks for help to find dog missing since Southwest Side break-in

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A family on Chicago's Southwest Side asked for the public's help to find their dog, which has been missing since their home was broken into last week.

Police said the residents of a home in the 7700-block of South Karlov Avenue in the city's Ashburn neighborhood said someone broke in between 9:45 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Dec. 7.

Homeowner Cathy Preciado said the home was ransacked and their 6-year-old dog, Andy, was stolen.

"He's part of the family. He's like my son. It's sad to just come home and not hear him bark or have him jump on us when we get home, wagging his tail when he sees you walking in through the door," Preciado said.

"I'm worried that he's getting fed. I'll be feeding my family at dinner time, and I'm just thinking... I'll start crying because he eats at the same time we do," she said.

The burglary was apparently the work of a team of thieves based on the amount that was stolen, including televisions, computers and other electronics. Even the gifts for Preciado's children, sitting under her Christmas tree, were taken. But she said all of those are replaceable except for Andy.

"Heartless. Heartless, especially during the holidays. I'm ready to take down my tree. And it's sad. It's sad. To me it's not going to be Christmas if Andy's not here," Preciado said.

Preciado said one of Andy's characteristics is that he scratches a lot due to a skin allergy. He needs medication for the condition, yet another reason for worry.