IN a case of suspected dognapping, two males have been allegedly spotted putting dogs on a lead and taking them to a van on Minchinhampton Common near Stroud.

Police were contacted yesterday, Thursday, November 27 after the suspicious sighting at about 8am. The van was believed to be white in colour.

This is known to be a common method of stealing dogs and there have been reported cases on Selsey and Minchinhampton Commons in the past.

Dog owners who take their dogs for a walk in the area are urged to keep a very close eye on their pets at all time.

All owners should also consider fitting their dogs with a microchip which will help keep track of the dog. This can be done for free via a current Dogs Trust offer. See their website for full details, and which local vets can fit them.

In addition, ‘My Dog UK’ has a useful app which can track your dog via a smartphone.

Anyone with information about this or similar cases is asked to call 101 quoting Incident number 177 of 27 November.

You can also give information anonymously by contacting the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org and you may receive a reward if someone is arrested and charged.