When Johnathan Kennedy’s mother was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, he had to give up his beloved miniature yorkshire terrier as she was at risk of infection from pets.

His mother Mandy promised him he could get another dog when she was in remission so Johnathan, now 10, began saving.

After two years and with Mandy in remission, he paid £375 for another miniature yorkshire terrier he named Tyke.

But he has been left devastated when the puppy was stolen after just five days from their garden in St Alban’s Road, Hersden.

Mandy, 39, who is now in the second quarter of remission said: “I’d told Johnathan he could have another dog when I was up and walking again so he saved and saved and saved.

“He washed people’s cars, he collected all his birthday, Christmas and pocket money until he could afford it.

“Johnathan has cared for me these last two years; he’s 10, this was his moment, and some heartless person has destroyed it. He is devastated, absolutely devastated.”

Johnathan, a pupil at Hersden Primary School, bought Tyke on Friday, January 30.

At 9pm on Tuesday, February 3, the puppy was put out in the back garden for 10 minutes. That was all it took for the thief to pounce.

“Police think he was stolen because you can see the damage in the trellis and plants where they climbed over,” said Mandy. “Maybe someone decent, with a conscience, will return the dog. Please give Johnathan a little hope.”

Posters have been put up around Hersden.

Tyke is black with tan eyebrows, beard and paws, and tan on his ears. Anyone with information should contact Mandy on 01227 711140.

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