Karen Rouse had only been living on the Tilligerry Peninsula for two weeks when her four-year-old dachshund, Chloe, escaped from the home of a pet sitter while she was on the way to work.

Ms Rouse said Chloe helped with her anxiety and depression, which she has been battling with since the dog went missing.

Chloe went missing from Tanilba Bay on the morning of Friday, September 1.

It is understood that a door at the home of the pet sitter looking after Chloe was accidentally left slightly ajar and she escaped. 

Ms Rouse learned about the escape as she reached Newcastle, where she works.

By the time she turned around and reached Tanilba Bay, the dog was nowhere to be seen.

Only one sighting of the small, long-haired dachshund has been reported to Ms Rouse since.

Chloe was believed to have been seen in Oyster Cove.

“I’ve been looking every day, knocking on doors and talking with people,” Ms Rouse said.

“It’s definitely not how I wanted to get to know my neighbours.”

As well as searching the area, Ms Rouse has posting on social media and has called Port Stephens Animal Refuge and Port Stephens Council rangers for any sighting of her small, red coloured companion.

Ms Rouse is hopeful Chloe has been sighted or that someone knows where she is.

Chloe is small and has long red hair. She is microchipped.

Anyone with information is asked to phone 0406 258 887.