A devastated family who believe their much-loved dog was stolen, have launched a campaign to find her.

Honey, a golden cocker spaniel, went missing from her home in Beechwood Gardens, Meopham, on the morning of June 17 and owners Cintia Gardner and Andy Gardner are desperate to get her back.

Mrs Gardner, said: "I last saw her in the garden. We live in a rural area in a cul-de-sac and the gate was left open. There are dogs next door and we think she followed another dog, but we don't know.

"She completely vanished; no one in the road has seen her."

Honey, who is a year-and-a-half old, is microchipped and wearing a collar with the family's number inscribed on it.

"If anyone had found her and picked her up, they could have called me," Mrs Gardner said.

Earlier this month, a stolen cavapoo called Peanut was found by police wandering along a busy road in Maidstone, three days after he was reported missing.

As well as this, Animal charities have confirmed they are investigating reports of unwell puppies being sold at Maidstone services at Junction 8 on the M20.

The Kennel Club, an organisation dedicated to the welfare of dogs, has warned scams and instances of rip-off merchants illegally selling puppies have sky-rocketed during the coronavirus crisis.

Mrs Gardner said: "People have said they might want to keep her because of the price of her puppies, but she is neutered."

A search party was launched by neighbours and friends and more than 100 posters have been placed in the area, in case anyone has information which could lead to Honey's return.

The couple, who have two children aged three and eight, have also started a FB with more than 400 members, some from as far as Wales.

The family bought Honey from a neighbour, who is a breeder, when she was a puppy.

'People have said they might want to keep her because of the price of her puppies....'

"We weren't planning to get a dog because we have got small children but then we saw her and fell in love. She's been part of the family since then. The children love her, they used to cuddle her all the time. She's very friendly, bouncy and happy."

The family are offering a reward for information leading to her safe return.

Honey's disappearance has been reported to the police.

To join the Facebook group dedicated to finding Honey, click here.

Alternatively, you can also contact DogLost, if you have information about Honey.

Escaped animals, unusual finds and news from the RSPCA can all be found here.

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