A heartwarming video released by the Sussex police shows a dog reuniting with her family after eight years. The cocker spaniel named Cassie was found and returned by police officials, along with three puppies that are said to be hers. In the video, a police official is heard explaining to Cassie’s owner that the dog has been through a lot over the years, so she might not act the same. The owner, overwhelmed by emotions, is heard weeping, eagerly waiting to hold her lost dog from eight years ago.

The 1-minute-long video shows the heart-touching moment of the dog’s reunion with its family. The short video ends with an overjoyed family member finally meeting Cassie’s three puppies.

 Reacting to the incident, the family shared their gratitude to finally have their dog back. They added that Cassie had settled well and enjoyed her daily walks. According to the statement, the puppies have been sent to good homes. The family described the reunion as a “priceless Christmas present”, that instills hope in those who have had their dogs stolen or lost.

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The police, along with the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), found Cassie after a series of raids back in November, through a tip-off.

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While Sussex police stated that pets being stolen were a rare occurrence, many were lost due to negligence. The officials suggested that pet-owners could take simple measures to ensure the safety of their pets, including microchipping, keeping an updated pet photograph in case it goes missing, and informing the police.

Oliver Fisher, inspector of the Sussex police rural crime team, added in a statement that many pets had recently been found after they were stolen and kept in horrifying conditions at puppy farms.

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Due to the rise of many households owning pets during the pandemic, many miscreants have begun stealing pets for sale or breeding purposes.

The inspector added that pet buyers should be careful about the seller. This can help avoid major health risks in pets caused by poor breeding and living conditions.