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The RSPCA says it's 'really concerned' about a rise in the number of dogs being stolen in Leicestershire.

There have been a number of cases in the past few weeks where kennels and people's homes have been broken into and dogs taken.

It's thought criminals are stealing dogs to sell or bread, due to the price of dogs having gone up as a result of more people wanting one during the pandemic.

A woman says her friend had a black labrador stolen from a home near Billesdon in north Harborough last week.

The owner was too upset to speak to us - and her friend wanted to remain anonymous.

In a statement sent to ´óÏó´«Ã½ Radio Leicester, Leicestershire Police said it was aware of a number of incidents in recent weeks where dogs have been stolen – or attempts have been made to take a dog from its owner.

The force says it understands the concern that recent incidents may have caused among communities and ask that people remain vigilant and work with the police to identify those responsible.

They want to hear from you if you see or notice anyone acting in a manner that seems unusual or suspicious. This includes any adverts for dogs for sale where detail about them is limited.

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