Update: One-Eyed Dog Returned to Elderly Woman

Update as of 11:40 a.m. Sunday: The dog was returned Friday by a person who said they saw him walking down Palm Avenue. A reward of $500 was given to the person, according to Barbara Preston.

Friends of a 92-year-old Imperial Beach woman expected home from the hospital Saturday are seeking the public’s help in recovering her stolen dog, Corey.

Wilma Lee Campion is recovering from a broken hip but also relies on Corey, say neighbors.

Barbara Preston said Campion adopted the one-eyed dog from the animal shelter last year. The canine provided her with company, hearing assistance and security.

“After eight or nine weeks in rehab, all she wanted to do was be home with her dog,” said Preston, who has been Campion’s neighbor since 2005.

“The basic thing is somebody broke in, and the dog is gone and she’s the constant companion and helpmate to an elderly woman, so we really need to get the word out to see if the dog is spotted.”

Preston called the loss “a terrible thing" and that she's concerned about her neighbor being home without her friend.

Campion has lived in Imperial Beach for more than 50 years.

About two weeks after going to the hospital, Corey was in Campion's backyard when someone spotted her and filed a report with Animal Control claiming that the dog looked neglected or abused.

Animal Control Services was called to the residence at least four times since last month, and each time found no signs of neglect or abuse, an Animal Control officer said.

Campion’s son Ken was watching Corey and the house while his mother was in the hospital.

Last Friday, while he was at work as a karaoke DJ, someone may have broken into the garage and took the dog.

He filed a report that said the home was burglarized May 12.

No suspects have yet been identified and a detective will be assigned to investigate the case, said a sergeant with the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department Imperial Beach station.

If you know see Corey or know her whereabouts, please contact Animal Control Services at 619-423-8306 or the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department Imperial Beach station at 619-498-2400.