Dog owners in Fareham and the surrounding areas are being encouraged to exercise increased vigilance following two reports of attempted dog theft in the past week.

The first incident occurred just after 7pm on Friday, September 20 in Marks Road, Titchfield. A woman in her 40s was walking her West Highland terrier when a small white van pulled up beside her, screeching the brakes as it stopped.

A man got out of the van and attempted to steal her dog. The woman fought him off and the man got back into the van and drove off without the dog.

The second incident took place in Chatsworth Close, Fareham at around 8.30pm on Tuesday, September 24. A woman was walking a miniature schnauzer when a small car pulled up beside her. A man got out and attempted to steal her dog but she pulled the dog back on its leadto stop the man taking it. The man drove away empty-handed.

PC John Cupper said: “It is not clear why attempts have been made to steal these breeds of dogs.

“Investigations are ongoing into the circumstances of the incidents and whether they are being carried out by the same person.

“We would advise dog owners to be extra vigilant when out walking their dogs and report any suspicious activity to police.”

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RMS Number: 44130362664