Stolen dog reunited with family after eight years in emotional video

An emotional video shows the moment a family is reunited with their dog, who was stolen eight years ago from their garden.

Cassie the cocker-spaniel has been reunited with her family after eight years. Picture: Sussex Police

A heartwarming video shows the moment a dog, who was stolen eight years ago from the front garden of a home, is finally reunited with her family.

Following a tip off from the public, Sussex Police Rural Crime Team — and other authorities, including the RSPCA — conducted raids in November looking for a stolen dog in England.

In what the family described as a “priceless Christmas present”, Cassie the cocker-spaniel was found along with three puppies, two boys and one girl, who were thought to be hers.

In a video shared to social media capturing the moment Cassie returns home, the family was warned she was probably not the Cassie they remember when she was “teeny tiny”.

But it didn’t matter, with the family in tears of joy at the sight of their furry friend. Cassie can be seen wagging her tail as she was showered in love.

“We are so thankful to have our Cassie back home, after eight years since being separated from her,” a family member said in a statement.

“Cassie has settled in very well and is enjoying her daily dog walks.

“As for the three puppies, they have all gone to good homes and are loving their new set family life.”

Cassie the cocker-spaniel was missing for eight years. Picture: Sussex Police

She is back at home enjoying daily walks. Picture: Sussex Police

Sussex Police Rural Crime Team Inspector Oliver Fisher said there had been an increase in people owning pets during the pandemic. That’s led to a rise in the number of criminals stealing animals to sell on or breed.

“The inflated prices of puppies has resulted in unscrupulous individuals breeding dogs purely for profit,” he said.

“I would urge anyone considering buying a puppy to think carefully about who they buy from.”

Insp Fisher warned people looking to buy a dog should insist on seeing the home where the puppies and mother are kept.

“Prospective buyers who turn a blind eye to irresponsible breeders not only perpetuate the suffering of animals but risk buying a puppy with significant health issues, which can be costly to treat and sometimes fatal,” he said.

Cassie and her three puppies. Picture: Sussex Police

However, Insp Fisher did say owners should not fear having their dogs stolen as it was “extremely rare” and simple precautions could be taken.

Owners were advised to:

● Get their pet microchipped and keep their details up-to-date;

● Get their pet neutered to make them less desirable for breeding;

● Ensure their home and garden is secure with gates locked;

● Never leave their pet alone in a parked car or tied up outside a shop;

● Teach their pet a reliable recall and ensure they do not stray too far when walking off-lead.