HE is a rare breed worth hundreds of pounds but above all is a beloved family pet.

Thieves are thought to have stolen Frankie, a Kerry blue terrier, from the garden of his Hampshire home.

The two-year-old, that is classed as vulnerable as there are less than 300 of them registered nationwide, was taken after his owner Lydia Stallard put him in the garden of her Totton home with her other dog Dayzee.

When he did not come back inside Lydia went to investigate to find the side gate to her property was open and Frankie was nowhere to be seen.

Despite a huge poster campaign and flyer drop in the area there have been no sightings of Frankie, who was wearing an identification collar and is also micro chipped.

“It is the only reasonable explanation, that someone has taken him. We have tried everything and he has just vanished. He wouldn’t just wander off and if he had been found my contact details were on his collar so there would be no reason why someone wouldn’t have got in touch. The worst part is not knowing what has happened to him.”

Frankie actually belongs to Lydia’s two sons, Louis, 18, and Ash, 16. “We are all devastated about it. He is such a lovely family pet.”

It is thought Frankie may have been stolen for his value, as pure breed Kenny Blue Terriers are sold as puppies for around £800.

As part of her desperate bid for his safe return Lydia, 47, a part-time charity worker, has notified the police and local dog wardens who have put out a national appeal for information.

A substantial reward is also being offered for information that could reunite Frankie with his owners after his suspected theft on the afternoon of July 28 from his home in Water Lane.

The appeal is being advertised on national dog owner websites and Lydia hopes someone will recognise Frankie from his distinctive look.

Lydia said: “I had only had him clipped a couple of days before, he does take a lot of grooming because of his coat and needs brushing every day. He is quite high maintenance and has a special diet so needs a lot of care.

“We just want him back. If anyone has seen him or has any information please get in touch.”

If you can help contact Lydia on 07916 267495.