A DOG that was stolen in Dorset several years ago finally has a happy ending and after being reunited with its owner. 

Following concerns that the dog was stolen, a site visit was conducted out of the county and it was seized by police.

Officers discovered that the dog no longer had a microchip after a vet found a scar consistent with a microchip being removed.

By working with partnership organisations, it was determined by police that the dog’s distinguishing features matched those of the stolen dog.

PC Sebastian Haggett, from Dorset Police Rural Crime Team, said:"The theft of pets, whilst rare in Dorset, can have a real and substantial emotional impact on their victims.

"Being able to return this dog today and being able to witness the emotion upon its return was nothing short of extraordinary. It’s certainly not a scene I’ll be forgetting.

"Whilst we are unable to comment further on this case whilst legal proceeding progress, I would like to thank, on behalf of the victim, the ongoing support the charity Dog Lost has provided in this case."