Police advice after concern about dog thefts on the Yorkshire Coast

In the wake of growing concern about dog thefts, Humberside Police has urged people to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

Their tips come after three spaniels were taken from farm outbuildings near Burton Agnes.

Two of the dogs have been reunited with their owner but the third, Keedy, is still missing.

A spokesperson for the force said: "We are acutely aware of the fear of dog owners after a number of social media posts about thefts in our area. Many of our officers and staff are dog owners and they are very much part of our families too.

"We understand that nationally there are increased reports of dogs being taken but we are thankfully not seeing a rise in our area. The number of dog thefts reported to us in our area remains low.

"We would, however, advise people to continue to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

"The theft or loss of a dog is a very traumatic experience for any owner and if it is reported to us we will act to try and locate the dog and fully investigate the theft.

"We would always ask for people to take some basic crime prevention measures to protect their own dogs too.

"If your dog is kennelled outside please ensure these are secure and locked and install CCTV to monitor your property if at all possible.

"If you are out with your dog please keep it under full and proper control and in sight.