1 December 2008

A Merseyside family are appealing for the safe return of their British bulldog puppy which was snatched during a burglary.

In addition to the dog, Buzz Lightyear, thieves also took two cars and a laptop from the family's home.

Buzz Lightyear's devastated owners, Katy and David Cunningham, were alerted to the burglary when their four-year old son, Alfie, told them their front door was open.

The distraught couple stated that they are more concerned about the impact of the dog theft on their son rather than the theft of their belongings.

"Alfie is devastated - Buzz is such a lovely puppy," Mr Cunningham told the Liverpool Echo.

"The dog is totally Alfie's dog. It is so upsetting for him and our family. They can keep the cars - we just want our dog back."

According to the Sunderland Echo, a pet owner has voiced his concerns about his missing greyhound.

The rescue pet was in his owner's car which thieves stole and fears the dog may not survive the cold weather if he is dumped.