DOGNAPPERS are being hunted after a family pet was believed to have been stolen from the garden of a Basingstoke home.

A reward is being offered for information which leads to the safe return of the pet and the arrest and conviction of the thieves after the five-month-old Rottweiler disappeared from the garden in Campsie Close, Buckskin.

Roxy is owned by Leanne Ford, 21, and her two year-old son Joshua. Leanne said: "When Roxy was taken, the gate was open and her collar had been removed.

"It would not be difficult to take her because she is a very friendly dog - particularly for the breed she is. Whoever did this must be very heartless to steal a family dog."

Roxy is described as large for her age and very friendly and approachable. She also has a breeder's tattoo on the inside of her leg and has been microchipped so her identity can be verified.

Pc Sion Margrie said: "There are people who make money in stealing dogs and because Roxy is so young, it's possible she could be re-homed quickly because she wasn't used to her owner. A dog of that kind could easily fetch £300 to £400.

"The owner saw an unfamiliar car parked near to her house when Roxy was stolen."

If anyone has information about the whereabouts of Roxy, call Basingstoke police on 0845 045 45 45.