A couple have been left heartbroken after seven bulldog puppies were snatched from their home.
Tammy McKenna and her partner Paul were asleep in bed when dognappers struck in the early hours of this morning (Tuesday, February 2).
After being awoken by a knock on the door from police shortly after 2.30am, they realised the litter of seven-week-old puppies were gone.
"We didn't hear anything at all," said Ms McKenna, 36.
"The police were responding to a report of a break-in around the corner and noticed the double doors to our extension were wide open.
"They knocked on our door and asked if we had anything of value and we said the puppies were in there."
The missing dogs were among nine puppies the couple kept at their home in Shelley Street, in Leigh.
Ms McKenna says she believes those responsible were 'professionals'.
"We didn't hear any barking," she explained.
"They knew what they were doing and have definitely just come for the dogs.
"They have broken the lock handle of the door to get in.
"We have probably been a bit stupid and put selfies with the dogs on Facebook.
"It's heartbreaking to think the puppies are out there now, cold and unfed.
"They will be terrified, they could die.
"There's one that is really poorly. He will not survive without his mum."
Following the theft, Ms McKenna took to Facebook to appeal to anyone who knows anything about the missing puppies to get in touch.
The couple are now offering a £1,000 reward to anyone who can reunite them with their beloved pets.
Ms McKenna said: "We just want them to bring them back. They are not worth anything without papers.
"We didn't breed them to make any money. We were keeping them within the family.
"They are loved dogs."
A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said: "Officers were called just after 2.30am today (2 February 2021) to a report of a burglary on Shelley Street in Leigh.
"Seven puppies were taken.
"Enquiries are on-going and anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting incident number 222 of 02/02/2021 or online at www.gmp.police.uk.
"Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."
