By Ann Rubin
Hazelwood, MO (KSDK) - A dog adoption group is issuing a warning to pet owners tonight beware of thieves. They say one of their recently-rescued dogs was stolen today and they fear this is part of a bigger problem.
Sherrie Brunson-Jones just got her Saturday. Chloe, a 6-year-old Shih Tzu, was an early Valentine's Day present from her husband.
But Monday afternoon, she says Chloe was stolen from in front of a Hazelwood home, as her grandmother went to let her out.
"While she was watching her, someone drove up and coached the dog in the car and sped off. And my grandmother is 76-years-old, she can't run after someone in a speeding car," said Brunson-Jones.
The only description is that the car was black. Hazelwood Police are investigating.
And so is the Doggy Doodles Adoptions group.
"What I hope is that people start really keying in on the fact that this is now happening," said owner Christa Riley.
They say dog owners report what appear to be thefts more and more often.
They heard about one case just last week.
"Nine out of ten it's a bait dog. There are occasions where somebody might see a dog and decide they want it because it's a frou frou dog and it's expensive," said Riley.
They say Chloe is micro-chipped and wearing a tag with her owners names and numbers. They're others hoping will learn from what happened and keep a close eye on their pets.
Sherrie Brunson-Jones says she just hopes whoever has her dog will do the right thing.
"I want Chloe back. She's not just a dog, she's Chloe. She's a part of me, my family and I want her back," she said.
Hazelwood Police say anyone with information in this case can call 314-513-5200. They say they do not know of any similar cases in their jurisdiction.
A dog reported stolen in Berkeley last week was later found wandering in the street and was returned to its owner.
KSDK