A FAMILY today told of their astonishment when they were reunited with wandering pet Quincy after he had been AWOL for more than six years.

Animal care officers had found the emaciated dog roaming the streets of Glasgow in a sorry state.

But Quincy the dog has settled back into his home.

The Smith family from Motherwell said their 11-year-old mongrel had been chasing rabbits outside the family home in March 2001 when he suddenly vanished.

Their now 12-year-old son, Lewis, who suffers from autism, had developed a strong bond with the dog but as time passed, it became increasingly unlikely Quincy would return.

Chris Smith, 44, who works for Routes to Work in Wishaw, said: "We rehomed him in 2000 from Bothwell Rehoming Centre.

"But one day, when he was out for a walk he just vanished. I remember it well because it was Mothers' Day in 2001."

Mr Smith's wife Audrey, 42, gave birth to daughter, Cara, now seven, who until his return had never seen the family pet.

Then in August last year, the Scottish Society for the Prevention for Cruelty to Animals called to say they had found him.

Chris said: "He was in a terrible state with teeth missing but the family were overjoyed, Lewis hadn't stopped talking about him since he disappeared and had never given up hope he would come back.

"He recognised us instantly when he returned.

"He's an old dog, but we're just delighted he's come home."

The family have no idea where the dog went for the six years he was missing.

Since Quincy's return the Smiths have noticed a real improvement in Lewis's progress.

SSPCA inspectors tracked him down thanks to a microchip which gave his address.

The Smith family today again thanked the SSPCA as the group launched Scottish Animal Week.

The charity's Glasgow Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre cared for more than 2400 abandoned and abused animals last year. And it has launched an emergency helpline to report cruelty to animals.

Chief Superintendent Mike Flynn of the Scottish SPCA said: "We are delighted to hear that Quincy is settling in so well."

To report an animal in danger or in distress, call 03000 999 999 or visit scottishspca.org/rehoming.