Swirling social media rumours of a spate of dog thefts in North Herts have been scotched by police after an investigation.

For months Twitter and Facebook users have speculated that precious pets have been stolen, but Herts police has found that only three have gone missing since the start of the year.

Of the three thefts that took place this year, two dogs have been returned to their owners and arrests have been made in connection with the crimes.

All three dogs which have gone missing were taken in October this year, with two further incidents of dog theft investigated in North Herts during 2013.

North Herts Safer Neighbourhood Team Inspector Duncan Sales said: “Most of these apparent thefts have not been reported to us or have proved to be unsubstantiated.

“Our advice to dog owners is to not leave pets unattended in a garden or exercise area which is not completely secure and ensure there are no gaps in fences or unlocked gates which could be left open.

“We would recommend that dogs are kept on a lead in public places and owners should also ensure their pets are micro-chipped and that they have an up to date photograph of them - therefore if they are stolen or lost, they are easy to identify if found.”

However if anyone believes their dog has been stolen, not lost, they should report it to police at once by calling 101 with as much detail as possible or dial 999 if you have just witnessed a theft take place or in an emergency.