DOG owners across Gloucestershire have been warned to watch out for dog-nappers after a woman reported a man was trying to steal her pet.

Last week, on Wednesday at around 5pm, a woman was walking her dog in Stroud on the cycle path behind the Bath Road Trading Estate.

During the walk she called them back to her but only one returned. She then noticed a man holding on to this dog and it appeared like he would not let go despite the dog wanting to return to its owner.

The woman started to run towards him and the dog, which was trying to get free. The animal then managed to break away after its collar snapped. The man then ran off.

He is described as white, 5ft 10" tall, aged between 32 and 35 years old, short mousy blonde hair. He was of unkempt appearance - wearing blue jeans and a large, shiny blue quilted waist length jacket.

Gloucestershire Police would like to hear from anyone who saw anything suspicious in that area on the January 28.

If anyone has any information about this incident or on the man described above they are asked to call 101 quoting incident no. 300 of January 28.

A Gloucestershire Police spokesman said: "We do not wish to overtly alarm dog owners but are asking anyone out walking their dog to be extra vigilant, especially if letting them off the lead."

Dogs owners are urged to follow this advice:

• Ensure your pet is micro-chipped.

• If your dog runs off and it is found, you can be easily traced as its owner.

• If your dog is stolen, when it is taken to the vets, they will discover that the dog is chipped and you will be identified as its rightful owner.

• Don't leave dogs unattended in the street.

• Ensure your garden is secure and don't leave them alone for long periods of time.

• If you keep them outside, make sure your property and kennels are secure.

• Always keep them on a lead when walking near roads.

• Ensure your dog is fully trained to come back to you before you let it off the lead.

• Don't allow your dog to run free near roads or in built up areas.

• Don't allow it to run free near farm animals.

• Don't let it become a nuisance or danger to other people or animals.