GARDAÍ HAVE LAUNCHED an appeal for witnesses after 14 dogs were stolen from a house during a burglary in Co Limerick.

The dogs, which included Bichon Frise , Cavalier King Charles, Jack Russell and Cavachon breeds, were stolen from kennels at the back of a house in Tullig, Drumcollogher at around midday yesterday.

Investigators say that a black car was seen leaving the property at around the same time.

Some of the dogs were owned by the family living at the property, while others were waiting to be collected by new owners in the coming weeks.

Gardaí said the dogs are all believed to be worth around €8,000, but “have a sentimental value that is irreplaceable”.

Investigators are appealing for anyone who may have seen a black car in the area, particularly road users with video footage, to contact them.

They are also urging anyone who may have been offered a dog that fits this description to contact gardaí in Newcastlewest on 069 20650, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800-666-111 or any garda station.