Stolen Pug 'Buddy' Returned Anonymously to Elderly Owners in Tri-Valley

LIVERMORE, CA – UPDATE: FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 11 a.m.

A 10-year-old pug named "Buddy," was anonymously returned to his Livermore home Thursday night after reportedly being snatched from his yard earlier that day, police said.

The pup, who is recovering from surgery and has difficulty walking, was dropped off at about 10 p.m., Lt. John Hurd of the Livermore Police Department said this morning.

The investigation is ongoing to find the suspects involved, he said.

Buddy was unharmed, and his elderly owners were grateful for his return, Hurd said.
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UPDATE: FRIDAY, APRIL 7. 10 a.m.

The Livermore Police Department reported in a brief statement this morning that "Buddy," a 10-year-old pug stolen from his yard was found and reunited with its family.

"Buddy has been returned to his owners," the agency said.

No additional details were released, but Patch will update when more information is available.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 7:46 p.m.

"Buddy," a beloved 10-year-old pug with health woes and owned by an elderly Livermore couple, was reportedly taken today from his yard near Elm and North P streets by three juveniles in a gray Acura, according to police.

Buddy's owners were sitting in their garage -- some 20 feet away from the yard and Buddy -- at about 11:45 a.m. when a witness said a four-door, "lowered" Acura with custom black wheels with three juveniles, two white males and one white female inside, pulled up, the Livermore Police Department said.

Police were told the male driver had dark hair, and the male who snatched Buddy from his yard had blonde hair. The female, also a blonde, was seen entering the car once the dog was "secured in the back seat." The vehicle was last seen traveling east on Elm toward North P, police said.

Buddy suffers from "serious health issues," with a tumor recently removed from his upper shoulder and a portion of his shoulder shaved with stitches. According to his owners, Buddy also has a hard time walking or moving and are worried that the pup will not do well away from home, police said.

The couple received Buddy as a retirement gift from their daughter 10 years ago and are willing to offer a reward for the safe return of their pet.

Any investigative leads regarding this theft can be referred to Officer Dave Morris at (925) 294-7561.

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--Images via LPD