Plea to return stolen pets

Elizabeth Rea, 74, was shocked when she returned to her Hillhall Road home last Saturday to find the back door open and her cherished Chihuahua dogs missing.

A few pieces of jewellery and some other small items had also been taken but she believes the intention of the break-in was to take her dogs, whose leads were gone too.

Elizabeth’s son Gordon said his mother is devastated. “They were her companions and she misses them dearly. She seems to think someone may have been watching her and knew she had left the house as she wasn’t away for long.

“The dogs - Boop 18 months old and Buddy 18 weeks old - mean the world to her and we are appealing to anyone who may know their whereabouts to get in touch. My mother is heartbroken. Boop is neutered and is tan and white and the puppy Buddy is black and white. They are great companions for my mother and I hope someone out there can help us get them back.”

Councillor Jenny Palmer said she was disgusted that Mrs Rea’s pets have been stolen.

“I deplore the fact that these thugs targeted a senior citizen and I appeal to people to come forward if they have any information which will lead to the return of the dogs. Mrs Rea is heartbroken” she said.

“I will be contacting the Housing Executive to check security lights and secure the locks in the area where Mrs Rea lives.”

If anyone has any information regarding the dogs they can contact Gordon on 07863562120.

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