Dublin dog owners have been warned to be on their guard following an increase in pooch thefts in the area.
Gardai in Stepaside have received reports of a number of beloved family pets being stolen in recent weeks.
Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Councillor Michael Fleming took to social media to warn locals to be on high alert for dog thieves.
He said: "The Gardaí have contacted me to let me know that there have been a number of reported dog thefts in the area.
"Dog owners please be aware and if you need to contact Stepaside Garda Station then please call them on 01 6665700."
The Independent councillor also shared some tips on keeping dogs safe from ruthless thieves.
Pet owners are asked to be mindful that thieves are watching public areas for opportunities to make off with dogs.
They will often take dogs that have been left outside shops, in cars, front drives and kennels.
The brazen thugs may even follow people who are out walking their dogs home and could even attempt to snatch pups while they are being walked.
In order to reduce the chances of a dog being stolen, pet owners are advised to never leave them outside alone and don't let young children walk them on their own.
Friends and family of elderly people who have dogs are asked to accompany them when they walk their dogs if possible.
Owners are also strongly advised to have their dogs microchipped and keep their details up to date.
Earlier this week gardai launched an appeal to reunite a beautiful cocker spaniel with its owner.
The dog, which appeared heartbroken and scared, was found down in Cork on Tuesday after gardai received reports that two dogs had been stolen in Dublin.
One of the pilfered pooches was microchipped, making it easier to reunite with its owners, which thankfully it was earlier this week.
They posted a photo of the sad-looking little spaniel this afternoon, adding: "Looks like she was stolen, possibly from the Leinster Area and was found in Mallow, Co Cork.
"Following a report from Dublin that dogs had been stolen, an operation was put in place in Mallow yesterday.
"Two cocker spaniel dogs were recovered and seized by Gardai. Both dogs were scanned and one dog was positively identified and returned to owner.
"The second dog was not microchipped and we are trying to get her home."
