Seven puppies snatched from their bed with their mother when they were just two weeks old might now have been sold on, police believe.

Officers investigating the theft of the spaniel pups from the kitchen of a house in Petteridge Lane, Matfield, are renewing their appeal to help find them as they reach seven to eight weeks old and are ready to leave their mum.

DC Sarah Jacobs urged members of the public to report anyone they think is suspicious who might be trying to sell puppies.

She said: "We are asking people to think very carefully if they are offered spaniel puppies for sale. If you are not familiar with the seller, or the animals offered for sale are not from a reputable source, than please contact police.

"Your call could help reunite these puppies with their rightful owner and return them to a safe home."

The offenders also stole power tools during a break-in, which happened between 5pm and 8.30pm on Monday, December 23,

"This has caused a huge amount of distress to the owner, who has not only had to contend with having his home burgled but has obvious concerns over the welfare of his dog and these very young puppies..." - DC Sarah Jacobs

The four-year-old cocker spaniel bitch Rusty was with her puppies in their basket when they were taken. It had been due to be her last litter.

The puppies' father was found wandering in a road nearby, suffering from a head wound.

Six of the puppies are chocolate coloured and two of them have white markings. The other puppy is black with two white rear paws.

DC Jacobs added: "This has caused a huge amount of distress to the owner, who has not only had to contend with having his home burgled but has obvious concerns over the welfare of his dog and these very young puppies.

"It is likely that whoever is responsible also stole the mother as they realised the puppies were not old enough to survive on their own. However, now they will be looking to cash in on their crime, which is why we are asking members of the public for their help.’

Anyone with information is asked to phone DC Jacobs on 01622 604 356, quoting reference YY/025769/13, or Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.