The Livesey family has issued an urgent plea for the return of their beloved Cocker Spaniel Mabel, offering a £10,000 reward and deploying drones in a massive search operation across Lancashire. Mabel, 18 months old, disappeared from a farm in Inskip on April 10. Owners Sarah and Paul Livesey fear she may have been stolen by a visitor to their farm shop for breeding purposes.
Family Devastated by Loss
Sarah Livesey described Mabel as "the most loving loyal dog" and "the centre of our family." Speaking to ITV News, she said: "The children are devastated, we are all devastated. We just miss her so much and I know how much she will miss us." Mabel has been part of the family since she was a puppy, with distinctive red fur, a white chest, and a wrinkly forehead.
Search Efforts and Reward
Initial efforts to track down Mabel have failed, prompting the family to raise a £10,000 reward with help from relatives. Multiple possible sightings have been reported but none confirmed. Sarah said she hopes the reward will encourage someone to come forward. She added: "I can't sleep, I'm just existing, I just need her home."
Rising Dog Theft Concerns
Dog thefts have increased in the UK, with up to 2,000 stolen annually, and the North West being a high-risk area. Over 23,000 pets have been stolen in the last decade, leading to the Pet Abduction Act in May 2024, which increased penalties to up to five years in prison. Police urge owners to keep dogs in sight and ensure they are microchipped and registered.
Lisa Eardley, centre manager at Dogs Trust Manchester, told ITV that thieves see pets as an "easy way to make money" and often target "cute breeds" that can be moved quickly. She said: "I don't think they consider the impact it has on families."
Anyone with information about Mabel is asked to call 07971 866679 or 07825 986832.
