A FAMILY had to cut their holiday short after receiving the devastating news their pet dog had been stolen.

The Hammick family, from Romsey, flew back immediately to launch a search for their treasured puppy called Mouse.

Now they are offering a £500 reward to anyone who has seen the five-month-old Chihuahua.

They had put Mouse into Copied Hall Kennels, near Winsor before they went on holiday.

But while they were away they received a distressing call on the morning of October 30, from the kennels’ owner saying there had been a break-in and their tiny pup was stolen.

Mouse was the only dog stolen during the burglary.

Hayley Hammick, 43 said, they had bought Mouse as a present for their eight year-old daughter Mia, who is so upset by the loss of her best friend. She said: “Mouse was like Mia’s shadow she would follow her around everywhere she went.

“As you can appreciate she is devastated, she’s not eating or sleeping she is just worried about her best friend.

“We have contacted the police and we spoke to a private pet detective who is going to investigate the case.

“But if anyone saw anything, any information will help.”

The family, who had only had the tiny Chihuahua since the start of September, are particularly concerned because she has a degenerative eye condition, which needs medication and she would not have received it since she was stolen.

However, pet detective Colin Butcher believes this could aid in finding Mouse as the Hammick family had her microchipped.

He said:” It was a very smart move getting her microchipped so young, as she will require veterinary care at some point over the next six months.

“All good vets will always scan a new customer’s pet for microchips, which will uncover where she is from.”

A spokesman from Hampshire police said they encourage anyone who has any information to contact 101.

Hayley added: “We just want her returned safe no questions asked.”

If you think you have seen Mouse or have any information, contact Hayley on 07898 533354.