Puppy snatched in Belvedere pet shop raid given new home (From News Shopper)

Puppy snatched in Belvedere pet shop raid given new home

5:12pm Tuesday 5th February 2013 in Bexley By Sam Christie

Puppy reunited with shopkeeper Sheri Poole

A PEDIGREE puppy stolen during a late night smash-and-grab raid on a Belvedere pet shop three weeks ago has been found safe and well.

The adorable Shih Tzu was among four pooches – valued at a total of £2,000 – snatched from Belvedere Pets and Flowers on the evening of January 15.

Just as hope was running out the tiny pup was returned to the Albert Road shop after Bexley police arrested a man in connection with his disappearance on Thursday.

And just two days later the cute pooch was bought and given a new home.

Delighted shop owner Sheri Poole told News Shopper: “I’m very pleased, I didn’t really expect to get any of them back.

“I heard he was a bought off a drug addict in a park. He’s been well looked after.

“He’s gone to a nice little family with two young daughters.”

Mrs Poole, who picked up the pup from the police station, added: “To have all four back would be lovely.

“Don’t get me wrong I’m really pleased but there are still three missing and still don’t know where they’ve ended up.”

Steve Comfrey, shop assistant at Belvedere Pets and Flowers, believes the break through offers enhances the chances of finding the other Shih Tzu and two West Highland White Terriers.

He said: “Personally I didn’t expect to get them back.

“He’s been well looked after, there’s hope for the others.”

Bexley police arrested the man on suspicion of burglary following the return of the pup.

Around £350 in cash was also taken from the shop, which sells a wide range of animals, during the raid.

A Bexley police spokesman said: "Police have arrested a male in relation to the burglary and recovered what is believed to be one of the stolen puppies. At this stage further enquires are ongoing."

Anyone with information should call Bexley burglary and robbery squad on 020 8284 9248.