Police appeal after 6 dogs and puppies stolen from properties in Llandarcy and Llangyfelach

South Wales Police are urging people to be vigilant of dogs and puppies being sold after 6 animals were stolen overnight.

Two black and white old English Cross retrievers and two red and white Cavalier Cross Bishons puppies were stolen from a rural outbuilding in Llandarcy at around 11.15pm yesterday (13 January). All the puppies are only weeks old but the Old English Cross retrievers are very young and unlikely to survive without their mother.

South Wales Police also report two dogs stolen from kennels in Llangyfelach at about 3am this morning (14 January). It is believed a white van was involved in the theft of a black Labrador puppy and a dark sable Cocker Spaniel.

The Police are asking people to be vigilant and to report any animals of this description being advertised for sale if not from a registered breeder.

Superintendent Cath Larkman said: “It’s important to stress that these animals were taken from outbuildings / kennels and not from inside people’s homes, although dog owners are also urged to be vigilant.

“These dogs may be offered for sale and therefore we appeal to members of the public to help us by being vigilant regarding dogs being advertised for sale.

“In some of these crimes, very young animals were taken and I am sure that responsible dog owners will recognise and appreciate the risk and distress that this entails.

“We also urge people to do proper checks before buying any dog or puppy.”

More information for people looking to buy a dog or puppy can be found at https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/puppy

There are also some steps dog owners can take to keep your pets safe:

• Avoid leaving dogs in the garden or outside kennels if you are not at home
• If you keep dogs outside please consider extra lighting and CCTV to deter thieves
• If your dog is having puppies please be extra vigilant
• Make sure you dogs microchip information is up to date
• Keep a current photograph of your dog and note any distinguishing marks
• If you see anything suspicious please call 101 or in an emergency 999

Anyone with information on the thefts can contact 101 or email publicservicecentre@south-wales.pnn.police.uk quoting occurrence 2100014695