Six three-week-old puppies snatched in a burglary have been found alive.

The animals were found in two separate locations following the break-in at a house in Willesborough Lees and one man has been arrested.

The burglary took place in Cornes Close last Saturday when the six pets and computer equipment were stolen.

The Staffordshire bull terriers (similar to the one pictured left), worth a total of £1,500, had not been weaned and police said the owners were concerned about their welfare.

South Kent Police spokesman Rosy Alexander said: "Neighbourhood officers made enquiries at an address in Ashford town centre and three of the animals were found.

"Further inquiries lead to the recovery of the other three at a house in Charing."

The puppies were believed to have suffered dehydration and were taken to a vet.

They are recovering from being separated from their mother and are expected to thrive.

Police say that an 18-year-old local man was arrested yesterday on suspicion of burglary and theft from a dwelling.

He has been bailed pending further enquiries until April 1.