A DOG owner has issued a plea for the safe return of her dog after he was snatched from her husband outside Tesco on Poole Quay.

Marie Smith, 57, was exiting Tesco on Poole Quay on Friday, April 23 to return to her husband Andrew and their three month old German Shepherd puppy Bear.

Andrew was holding Bear as he was not due to have his regulatory vaccinations until Tuesday, April 27.

It was at this moment, according to Marie, that Bear was snatched from Andrew's arms.

Marie said: "At around 3.30pm I was coming out of Tesco on Poole Quay. Andy was holding Bear, who had a double clip lead on. A man came up, quickly unclipped Bear, ran over the road with him and got on a Beryl Bike and cycled away, with about 100 people in the area. 

"It was despicable and we're beside ourselves. It's been very overwhelming."

Pictures of Bear have been shared far and wide on Facebook, with many local residents assisting with the search.

Marie said: "You never expect anything like this to happen to you.

"If anyone has any information, please contact Dorset Police. We would be very grateful and would do anything to get him back if we can.

"There will be a reward for Bear's return."

Dorset Police have said that the investigation is ongoing and there have not been any arrests.