It is the worst nightmare of anyone who is pet-sitting. The pet that is entrusted to your care gets out of the house and you cannot find him or her to bring him or her home.

This was the case for Amanda Garland, who was watching a friend's 10-month old mini Australian Shepherd.

"On Sunday, Nov. 4th, 2012, I left my friend's 10 month old mini Australian Shepherd at another friend's house to babysit while I went to church," Garland said through an email sent by a friend. "Upon arriving to pick up the puppy around 3 p.m., I was informed that the puppy had gotten out of his collar and bolted down the street."

The dog got out of a house in the St. Francis Academy area on Raub Street in Joliet.

The dog is named Rebel, but Garland said contrary to his name, he is sweet and gentle. Rebel is brown and he is un-neutered.

"His owner Brandon, is in New York helping with the clean up efforts from the recent disaster of Hurricane Sandy," Garland said. "Brandon entrusted me with his best friend, and I have let him down.

"I am asking everyone to please keep an eye out and help me return Rebel to his heartbroken owner."

If you have any information, please call (815)351-2006.

An unspecified reward is being offered for the dog's return.