Dog Gone

We got in from WV on Tuesday.  It was about 9:30 PM.  The first thing I noticed as I pull up was the gate was open.  I pulled on up and I missed saeeing our dog Precious.  I thought "she wouldn't leave the yard?".  We looked and looked for her to no avail.  She is 17 years old and I am afraid she may have left to go somewhere to die.  I have heard of that before.  I do hope to find her and take care of her.  She is a really good dog and has always played and acted like a puppy chasing balls and bringin them back. I am afraid that she may be gone for good.