A DOG which was stolen from its kennel in the early hours has now been reunited with its owner.

Wessex, an 11-year-old golden Cocker Spaniel, was stolen from an address in the Hilfield area of Dorchester at around 12.15am on Thursday, July 27.

It was reported that he was taken from his kennel and the offender was seen making off in the direction of Cerne Abbas.

At approximately 7.45am on Friday, July 28, Wessex was found by members of the public running loose on the A35 between the Baker’s Arms roundabout and Bere Regis.

Wessex was described as being "wet, cold and scared" and covered in foliage. 

He was dried off and checked by a vet before being taken home to be reunited with his owner, Jackie. 

Bournemouth Echo: Wessex with the Dorset Police Rural Crime TeamWessex with the Dorset Police Rural Crime Team (Image: Dorset Police Rural Crime Team)

Police constable Sebastian Haggett, of Dorset Police’s Rural Crime Team, said: “Firstly, may I thank the members of the public that have helped get Wessex home. We continue to investigate this matter and take dog theft very seriously.

“I would ask anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity in the vicinity of the A35 on the morning of Friday 28 July 2023 to please get in contact."

Jackie, the owner of Wessex, said: “If anybody knows anything please come forward and tell the police. I am so glad to have my boy back.

"I am so thankful to Dorset Police and all the members of the public who have supported us and made this happen.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55230117386.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.