BELLEVILLE, Ill. - It’s been days since Belleville resident Becky Stapleton has seen her longtime pet tortoise, Butters.

“He's a very important part of our family; we interact with him every single day,” Stapleton said.

Stapleton said Butters got out of the garage when it was accidentally left open. He was last seen on Monday in Belleville, Illinois, near 74th and Main Street.

“We've been trying to put his favorite treats, bananas, out to see if that will draw them closer to the house,” Stapleton said.

Stapleton said Butters is friendly and approachable but does like to chase dogs.

“We've been searching under bushes, flower beds, anything we can since in the morning, and evenings is when they're the most active during the day. He won't be out. He'll be hiding under something, and then he hides at night,” Stapleton said.

Stapleton said Butters holds a special place in her heart, which is why she is searching high and low for him.

“About 15 years ago, I was taking care of my father who was dying from cancer, and right after he passed away, I was just really sad and upset, and so I wanted a comfort pet, and so I got Butters,” Stapleton said. “He was pretty small. He fit about in the palm of my hand, and I've had him ever since.”

Becky said she can be reached via Facebook for those who have any information on Butters.

Butters has yellow and red markings and is a 15-year-old red-footed tortoise.