A DORSET family are 'devastated' after their disabled son’s Lurcher puppy was stolen from their home.

Peter Richards, of Melbury Bubb, said the sixteen-week-old puppy was a close companion for his five-year-old son Archie, who has Downs Syndrome.

He had helped the youngster start to communicate more and the pair had become inseparable.

His condition means that Archie is unable to talk so Brady the puppy has been vital in helping him develop his sign language and confidence.

Now the family are desperately pleading with the thieves to bring back their dog for the sake of their son Archie and his sisters Jess, eight, and Hetty, seven.

Mr Richards said: “Getting Brady was just fantastic for the whole family and her bond with Archie made such a difference.

“Archie gets frustrated so it was great that he could use his signing to make the dog sit and stop because he could see the dog respond.

“It was so rewarding and motivating for him.

“She was a fantastic dog and we are all so sad she’s gone – especially Archie who is just devastated.

“We want whoever took her to return her because she means so much that we are willing to offer a cash reward in the hope someone will want this and return her.”

Mr Richards and his wife Gayle are offering a £100 reward for information that will lead to the dog’s safe return.

He said that family and friends were rallying around and that a Facebook page had been set up to try and trace the dog’s whereabouts.

He said: “We have had lots of posters made and we will be spending the weekend searching for Brady.”

On Tuesday, December 15, from 6.30pm to the 7am the following morning the thieves trespassed into the Richards’ family home and snatched the dog from its outdoor kennel.

The puppy is described as having a light brindle colouring with a broken coat. She is microchipped as well having a tattoo in her ear stating her identity.

Acting Inspector Steve Hughes of Dorset Police said: “Police are appealing for any witnesses to come forward as this theft has left the family distraught.”

If you have any information please contact Dorset Police on 01305 222222 or the Richards family directly on 01935 83571.