A dog fighting ring is likely to be responsible for a series of puppy snatches in Croydon, according to the London-based Kennel Club.

In the latest attack, five-month-old staffordshire bull terrier Maxi was taken from the home of Mark and Angela Potter, from Kelvin Gardens.

As the Guardian went to press, terrified Maxi was found more than three miles from home, five days after being taken.

But other puppies have not been so lucky. Maxi is at least the ninth terrier to have been snatched in the borough in the past seven months.

Kennel Club spokesman Brian Leonard told the Guardian: "It's possible they're being taken for a quick sale but that's unlikely because even a pedigree would only fetch around £50. The staffordshire bull terrier is a tough breed and were used a lot for dog fighting in days gone by.

"It's possible they are being taken for fighting purposes, which is very distressing for both dog and owner. They are very human-friendly dogs and so an easy pick-up."

Just two weeks ago, the Guardian reported on a pup-snatcher who forced a man to hand over his beloved terrier puppy in the street by threatening him with an axe.

A South Norwood police spokesman said: "It's very difficult for dog owners to keep an eye on their pets 24 hours a day. Our experience is that if someone is determined enough to steal one, they usually will."

Mr Leonard added: "I would encourage all dog owners to get their pets microchipped at the vets. It forms a permanent identification in case the animal is later abandoned."

Maxi's owner Mark said yesterday (Tuesday): "We're just so happy to have Maxi back. We were devastated when she was taken. She's very scared and has lost a lot of weight."

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