Sam, that is very sad. Very sad. I sincerely hope that you will get your dog back. Those of us that are dog lovers can appreciate the panic that this is causing you. For what it's worth, I've offered up a prayer that you will get Asta back in good health and with a wagging tail.

I have to ask - is it typical in Austria to allow strangers to take your dog for a walk? That would not be the case here in the US.

-Scott