Appeal after Bandit the malamute pup goes missing believed stolen: Burnopfield
(NE16 - Tuesday, 22 November, 2011)

Police are trying to trace a puppy believed to have been stolen from a house in Derwentside.

The seven-month-old Alaskan malamute was last seen by his owners at 11.30am on Sunday (Nov 20) outside their home at Low Friarside, Burnopfield.

Named Bandit due to a black mask-like pattern across his face, the black and white dog is valued at £800.

Owner Ryan Bowman, 39, said Bandit had been outside the family home playing with the children just before he disappeared.

The family searched the area around where they live in a desperate attempt to find him but without success.

He added:

"We just want Bandit back.

"He is a huge miss to all the family but particularly to one of the children who is autistic and has greater interaction with the dog than with other children.

"Bandit was his only friend and the two would play together for hours.

"If someone has taken Bandit and is fearful they'll be in trouble if they have a change of heart and bring him back they needn't be.

"All we want is for them to bring him home."

Mr Bowman's partner Jackie Walker, 33, said they believed Bandit had been stolen as there had been a recent foiled attempt to steal one of their dogs.

She explained that the family own Bandit's mother, two-year-old Missy, and she too is missing the pup.

She added:

"Bandit is timid with people and not street wise.

"He likes his home comforts and doesn't usually go far from the door.

"We are missing him terribly and would urge anyone who thinks they have seen him or has any knowledge of his whereabouts to contact us or the police."

Anyone with information about the dog's disappearance should contact PC Joanne Fullman at Stanley police station on 0345 6060 365.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Police Force: Durham

Address:
Low Friarside
Burnopfield
Newcastle upon Tyne
TYNE & WEAR
NE16