A west suburban family is desperately searching for answers after their dog went missing from a boarding and daycare facility in Broadview, raising concerns about safety, accountability, and oversight at licensed kennels.
Maryann Cross said she boarded her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Stella, at Bark BLVD over the weekend, trusting the facility to care for her beloved pet. Days later, Cross received a call that every pet owner fears: Stella had escaped and could not be found.
What the Family Was Told Happened
According to Cross, the facility told her that Stella climbed onto a chair and nearby equipment, managed to vault over a six-foot fence, and fell onto a concrete pad approximately six feet below. From there, staff believe Stella ran through a cemetery located behind the property and disappeared.
Cross said she was shocked by the explanation and struggling to understand how such an escape could happen at a professional boarding facility.
Email From the Boarding Facility
After Cross’ brother contacted the business seeking clarity, the family received a detailed email from the facility outlining its response. In the message, the company stated that staff immediately launched a search once Stella got out.
The facility said employees stayed on-site for 30 to 35 hours straight, searched the building and surrounding areas, monitored entrances, and left out food and familiar scents in hopes Stella would return. They also reported driving around the area, contacting shelters, veterinary clinics, and authorities.
The email emphasized that the situation was taken seriously and described the response as prompt and in good faith, while acknowledging the distress caused to the family.
Family Demands Accountability
Despite the explanation, Cross says she still has many unanswered questions. She believes the circumstances point to possible safety failures and wants to ensure no other families experience a similar loss.
“This isn’t just about our dog,” Cross said. “This is about whether these places are doing everything they should to keep animals safe.”
Police Report and State Complaint Filed
In response to Stella’s disappearance, Cross confirmed she has filed a police report with the Broadview Police Department. She has also filed a formal complaint with the Illinois Department of Agriculture, the state agency responsible for licensing and regulating animal kennels.
The Illinois Department of Agriculture has the authority to investigate complaints, inspect facilities, and determine whether violations of kennel safety or operational standards occurred.
Community Help and Ongoing Search
The family continues to search for Stella and is asking residents in and around Broadview to stay alert. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are small, friendly dogs that may approach people or seek shelter if frightened.
Anyone who believes they have seen Stella or has information is urged to contact local authorities or animal control immediately.
Broader Concerns for Pet Owners
Stella’s disappearance has sparked concern among local pet owners about kennel safety, fencing standards, supervision practices, and emergency protocols. Experts recommend that pet owners ask detailed questions before boarding animals, including how facilities prevent escapes, supervise outdoor time, and respond to emergencies.
For the Cross family, the focus remains on one goal: bringing Stella home.
