Coagh family devastated after little Millie stolen by suspected puppy farmers

The theft, which appears to have been carefully planned, happened on Monday afternoon when the mother left the house to collect her daughter from school.

One of the dogs a Springer Spaniel called Jack was found abandoned around five miles from the family’s home, but the seven-month-old Cavachon dog called Millie [pictured] has not been found.

The family who do not wish to be named, said they believe the spaniel was dumped on the roadside as the thieves realised the pet had been neutered and chipped.

They believe that Millie has been kept for breeding purposes, as the Cavachon breed has become increasingly popular and valuable.

“They must have been watching our home, you cannot even see the dogs from the road,” said the distraught mum.

“Millie was like our little baby and the whole family is devastated that she has been taken from us like this.

“I had only been away from the house for about 20 minutes, so they knew exactly when to come and take the dogs.

“They removed their collars and threw them into the pen, so that dogs would not be easily identified if they had been stopped with them.

“Thankfully we have got Jack back, but it’s terrible to think about what might have happened to Millie.”

She added: “It is really worrying to think that there are people out there who are watching people’s homes and waiting to steal dogs.

“We just want her back, there is a reward and hopefully someone will pick up the phone and help us.” If you have any information contact the family on 07402 848812