Police scaled down their search yesterday for an Inverness man who went missing while out walking his dog five days ago.
But they appealed to Inverness residents to check around their property in case he was taking shelter.
James Burgess, also known as Jamie, was last seen walking his wolf-like husky-cross pet in the Bught area of the city near the River Ness at 10.45am on Tuesday.
A police spokesman said: “It is known that he may sleep rough in sheds, buildings, outhouses, abandoned cars and boats and it is requested that people check these types of premises or places in the event that he is seeking refuge from the weather.
“We have received reports of possible sightings from the public on the Tuesday afternoon and early evening which at this time are unconfirmed but are helpful in piecing together his movements. Any further sightings should be reported to the police.”
The 48-year-old’s dog was found on Thursday morning with its lead chewed through, which police said “increased concerns” for its owner’s safety and led to a major land, sea and air search.
Yesterday, police using sniffer dogs carried out a reduced search operation in the city.
A police spokesman said “The police dog team was carrying out searches. Police are searching areas of Inverness where Mr Burgess was known to frequent.”
He was known to spend time in the area around the Ness Islands and the Caledonian Canal banks between Inverness and Lochend.
He was reported missing on Tuesday by his mother, whom he lives with in Lochardil, after failing to return home from walking his dog.
He is described as 5ft 6in and of muscular build with dark hair which is receding and turning grey.
He is thought to have been wearing a dark grey and navy checked coat, navy trousers and black Dr Marten boots when he went missing.
The dog was later found near the Bazpackers Hostel on Culduthel road with only part of its brown, webbed lead attached.
A search operation was launched focusing on the River Ness involving the Coastguard, RAF rescue helicopter, Kessock lifeboat crew and police officers. Anyone with information should call police on 101.