Stolen Puppy Reunited With Her Family More Than a Year Later

A dog stolen when she was just 10 weeks old has been reunited with her family more than a year later after she was found abandoned with a serious eye injury in Berkshire, England.

The Springer Spaniel, named Breeze, disappeared while walking with her owner Adam near Stratfield Saye in Hampshire in August 2025. The family had feared they might never see her again.

Found More Than 20 Miles Away

Breeze was found on September 13 near the Thames Water treatment site at Shurlock Row, around 20 miles (32 kilometres) from the place where she was stolen.

A Thames Water worker noticed the injured dog and reported her. The RSPCA then became involved after receiving the report.

Breeze was now 15 months old and was suffering from a severe injury to one of her eyes. Veterinarians determined that the eye had been badly damaged and eventually had to remove it.

A Microchip Helped Bring Her Home

The RSPCA was able to identify Breeze’s owners through her microchip. Adam had previously reported her as stolen, allowing rescuers to connect the injured dog with her family.

When Adam received the call, he said he initially struggled to believe that Breeze had finally been found.

The family had seen reports online about an injured spaniel in Berkshire but did not realise it was their missing dog. Breeze had grown considerably since she was taken, making her appearance very different from the puppy they remembered.

Back With Her Family

Breeze is now recovering at home with Adam and the family’s other dogs. Her appetite has been affected by the ordeal, but her owner said she is happy to be back with the family.

Adam’s daughter, Clemmie, was also delighted to see Breeze again after more than a year apart.

The RSPCA said the case highlights the importance of microchipping pets, which can play a crucial role in identifying animals when they are found after being lost or stolen.

Sources

• BBC News — “Stolen dog reunited with owners after a year” — September 28, 2026
• RSPCA — “Lost and found pets” — accessed September 29, 2026