Calgary police are investigating the theft of almost 20 pit bull puppies stolen from a northeast home.
It happened in the community of Whitehorn at around 5 pm. on Tuesday.
Robin McLaren said he had just arrived home from work when he spotted some strangers gathered near his neighbour’s yard.
“I noticed a group of people on the outside of the fence – kind of suspicious,” he said.
IN PHOTOS: 71 dogs and puppies rescued in large-scale mission in Northern Alberta
Moments later, McLaren said his neighbor rushed over to him and asked to use his phone, saying two litters of puppies she had just put for sale online had been stolen.
McLaren raced after the suspects, but said they left the scene in a small white hatchback.
McLaren was able to get the vehicle’s licence plate – which police told him was registered to a Chevrolet Silverado.
READ MORE: Devoted police dogs featured in 2017 Calgary police canine calendar
One pup – which had been hiding – was left behind.
“Somehow this one got left under the blanket and they didn’t notice.”
Anyone with information is asked to call police or contact Crime Stoppers.