There's been a sharp increase in dog theft this year.
The public is being asked to help reunite a suspected stolen dog with it's owner.
The springer spaniel was seized by Gardai investigating reports of two men acting suspiciously on the Old Dublin Road in Limerick.
A second springer spaniel was also seized and has since been reunited with his owner in Cork.
West Cork Crime Prevention Officer Sergeant James O'Donovan says there has been a sharp increase in dog theft this year, and is urging pet owners to be vigilant.
''Securing your home or your garden, all dogs need to be micro-chipped'', he said.
''Even if your dog is stolen, they might not see the value in the dog and they might discard the dog on the side of the road.
''And if someone found the dog at least we could return it, but the microchip is very important''.
Gardaí are appealing to anyone who can help get him home. Anyone with information should contact Henry Street Garda Station on 061-212400.
