Twelve dogs stolen

Twelve dogs have been stolen from boarding kennels in Smallbridge.

Sometime between 12.00am and 9.30am on Sunday 9 September 2012, the offenders broke into the business on Dye House Lane, forced open kennels and stole the dogs.

They are:

- Five West-Highland Terriers (two males and three females)
- A white Maltese Terrier (male)
- Three black poodles (one male and two females)
- A gold and white Shih Tzu (male)
- A gold Cocker Spaniel (male)
- A white Bichon Frise (male)

Sergeant Andy Fern said: "We would like to appeal to anyone who may have been offered the dogs for sale to contact us.

"They need to be returned to their rightful owners, and we need to trace the people who care not one jot for the welfare of the dogs or the families they are a part of.

"We are also working closely with the kennels offering crime prevention advice.

"We would also like to make it clear to the offenders, or any other criminals who may see such kennels as a soft touch, that we will work tirelessly to trace and arrest them.

"Their actions are affecting the livelihoods of those who run these businesses.

"I would also like to appeal to any possible witnesses to this burglary to get in touch."

Anyone with any information is asked to call police on 0161 856 1703 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.