Patricia Dickson: Police find 82-year-old after she went missing walking dog in Thornlie

Police declared it an “absolute miracle” that an 82-year-old woman and her dog was found safe and well lying in a bushland creek after a three-day search.

Patricia Dickson went missing on Friday with her Maltese Shih Tzu in the vicinity of Avon Court and Spelhurst Terrace in Thornlie on Friday afternoon around 2pm.

Ms Dickson had not been in touch with her family, which police say was out of character for her.

After an extensive ground and air search by police, SES, and community members, she was finally found on Monday morning lying in a creek in bushland.

Police said she was dehydrated and a bit confused but otherwise was doing well after being assessed by St John WA paramedics and taken to hospital.

Her dog, Jess stayed by her side the whole time through the scorching heat and was taken to a veterinary clinic for assessment.

Armadale police Inspector Erica Silwood said Patricia and Jess were found by a police officer in bushland not far from her home.

“It’s an absolute miracle because it has been really hot and Patricia is quite elderly so we were super happy with the result,” she said.

“Jess is very loyal and was found right next to her. Arguably protecting her because Jess was very noisy when the police were there with her.

“It’s a terrific outcome for her age and length of time she has been missing so we were very pleased and exceptionally surprised by the result.”

Insp. Silwood said Patricia was now doing well and the family were grateful to all that helped search for her.

“The number of community members out searching was a testament to how worried they were so we are very grateful and appreciative of their assistance,” she said.

“Absolutely terrific result for Patricia’s family and of course herself.”

Neighbour Kylie Linto said she could not believe Ms Dickson was found alive.

“We were just keeping hope, but started getting scared (about) what we would find,” she said.