A Norwalk mother is pleading for the community's help to find the missing companion dog that helps her son with autism.

Athena, a brown and tan hound, was last seen on Olmstead Place in Norwalk on July 22.

Merri Wong says they let her out in their fenced-in backyard, but later realized that their side gate was not latched. The family has been searching the woods and putting up flyers in the neighborhood, but to no avail.

Wong says her family adopted Athena two years ago for her 5-year-old son Andrew. She says Athena has a “gentle” and “very calming” effect on him.

Athena is 3 years old, 70 pounds, and was last seen wearing a pink and purple collar with a heart-shaped name tag.

Wong says if you see Athena, don't chase her. She is asking anyone with information to call 818-799-4359.