More than 20 dogs and puppies have been stolen during a raid on a kennels just outside Preston.
AdvertisementLancashire Police were called to Jackson Farm in Hunters Lane, Tarleton.
Two litters of puppies, some just three weeks old, were taken along with a number of adult dogs.
A cockapoo puppy was found dead on the grounds of the farm.
It is understood to have been run over by the getaway vehicle.
The thieves are understood to have broken into the kennels overnight and the theft of the dogs was discovered at 7am on Thursday (May 14).
Sergeant Amber Yahchouchi from Ormskirk Police said: “This is an absolutely despicable offence undoubtedly motivated by pure greed as the dogs which were stolen were the most valuable breeds.
“The puppies had already been paid for and reserved, so there will be families and children who will be especially upset.
“We are really concerned for the welfare of these animals and we don’t know whether they will be looked after properly. It’s important to remember that given their young age and the fact some of the dogs are pregnant, these animals require professional care.
“If you or someone you know have been offered puppies for sale, even if you have been told they won’t be ready for a few weeks, please let us know. Some of them look very distinctive and will be easy to identify.
“We are also asking people who are part of dog interest groups on social media to please spread the message and report any information about the whereabouts of these animals to us so we can get them back safe and well.”
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You can email 3945@lancashire.pnn.police.uk or call 101 quoting incident reference 236 of today (May 14th). Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.
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