TWO little girls, left heartbroken after their pet dog was snatched from outside their home, have had their wish for its safe return come true.

After a fraught week of searching, six-year-old Poppy Anson and Phoebe, three, are "over the moon" now that Tinkerbell Rose Petal, or Tinks, is back by their side.

The sisters had promised to give their pocket money as a reward, and their parents, Kate and Patrick, offered £300 for their pet's safe return.

The 18-month-old black cocker spaniel had last been seen near a blue/green Ford outside their Corfe Castle home on Saturday, February 24. When the car pulled away, she was gone.

After their plight was featured in the Daily Echo, a family from Turlin Moor, Poole, came forward. They say they bought the dog for £300 from a car being driven by two young men.

Now Tinks is back home, safe and well. Mrs Anson said: "We really didn't think we were going to get her back.

"I'm sure the article made a big difference. The girls were over the moon - they were practically on the ceiling they were so excited."