A NEWPORT family is distraught after their pet dog disappeared.

Jack, a Staffordshire bull terrier cross, is nine months old and has a history of wriggling his way out of the back garden - but has always returned home in the past.

But now the Morris family is appealing for help from Argus readers as Jack disappeared a week ago after escaping from the garden, and has not been seen since. Jennifer Morris, 30, of Rupert Brook Drive, Gaer, said: "Maybe someone knows what happened.

"I really believe he's so good-natured someone might have taken him in to look after him."

Jack has lived with the family since they adopted him as an abandoned puppy from All Creatures Great and Small, in Cwmbran, in November.

The family contacted Newport council and animal sanctuary, but has had no luck in tracking him down.

She said: "I've got posters to put up but don't know what else to do."

Her three children, Erin, three, Elliot, six, and Ashleigh, eight, hope someone will come forward to help them find their pet.

She said: "He was Elliot's favourite and because he has learning difficulties it's not easy to explain.

"The first thing he says every day is, 'where is my boy Jack?'

"I just can't explain. He is heartbroken and gets very upset."

Miss Morris added: "He's a loving and friendly dog, and as he escaped without his collar maybe someone thinks he's unwanted and has taken him in.

"Life is very hard without him. It has been wonderful having him in the family.

"Every day I expect to find him at home."

Anyone with information about Jack should phone Miss Morris on 01633 266460.