A DUBLIN family has enjoyed an emotional reunion with their beloved pet dog who was previously been snatched from the front garden of their home.
Bebe, a five-year-old black and white female Cavachon, was taken from her home at The Ward Cross in Dublin 11 near the Dublin/Meath border.
She was taken by a woman who put her in a black Volkswagen Golf before being driven off by a man in the direction of Ashbourne.
In the wake of her sudden disappearance owner her own Shane Rutledge and his family issued an urgent appeal for her safe return.
The family went as far as to offer a €250 reward for information that would help them find Bebe and bring her home where she belongs.
Friends, family and fellow dog lovers across Ireland lent their support to the campaign, with the appeal going viral on social media in the immediate aftermath of the dog-napping.
Ireland has seen a sharp rise in the number of dogs being stolen and sold on with many owners left bereft having never been reunited with their beloved canine and friend.
However, that wasn’t the case for Bebe and the Rutledges, who ended up reunited after the thieves had a change of heart and let the dog loose near her home.
Shane took to Facebook to share news of Bebe’s return and offer his sincere thanks to everyone who helped bring their beloved pet pooch home.
"We couldn’t believe it when our little Bebe ran back into our home...in the pouring rain after being drop off by those who stole her," he wrote.
"Other than being a little down she was excited to see everybody. She is in reasonably good condition, dirty and her tags have been taken off her but luckily in good health.
"I can’t thank everybody enough for the overwhelming support you have all shown in leading to the return of Bebe. It speaks volumes for the power of social media."
