Other recent sightings have been made in nearby Valley Stream and Folz believes the champion dog is going back and forth between Queens and Long Island.
Humane traps have been put out, two cameras have been set up each night in different areas plus feeding stations to attract the dog. In addition, last weekend volunteers posted fliers in St. Albans, Laurelton and Cambria Heights as well as Valley Stream.
Folz stressed however, that volunteers don’t want people going out trying to capture Vivi. In the past, that has only led to the dog going further afield. She is a sighthound, a breed that is very skittish and turns feral quickly.
In addition, whippets can travel very fast and know how to hunt. “We want people to be aware she’s out there and to call us if they see her, but don’t chase after her,” Folz said.
Persons wishing to put up more fliers or door hangers on residences are asked to contact Folz at Pawsativebf@aol.com.
Vivi disappeared on Feb. 15 when her crate opened on the tarmac at Kennedy Airport en route to her home in California. The dog had just competed in the Westminster Dog Show.
Initially, the sightings centered around the airport, but about a month later, switched to the Bayside area. Since then she has been spotted in Fresh Meadows, Flushing, College Point, Whitestone and Jamaica.
It is believed that the dog traveled some of the way using the greenways along the Cross Island Parkway, which is east of the airport and near the Belt Parkway. The Belt Parkway connects to Southern State Parkway and Valley Stream.
Before her disappearance, Vivi weighed about 30 pounds, is knee high, white with a brindle saddle.
To report sightings of Vivi, call (877) JFK VIVI or (917) 647 4848.
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