A plumber from Sturry, near Canterbury, Kent, has joyfully reunited with his cocker spaniel, Belle after she was stolen over three years ago. A dog warden discovered Belle 50 miles from home in Paddock Wood.

Josh Burns, 31, was devastated when Belle was taken from his garden in March 2021. He and his partner, Shellee, conducted extensive searches, distributed missing posters, and made social media appeals, but hope began to fade as time passed.

Despite their efforts, which included offering a reward for Belle’s return, they ultimately adopted a Labrador puppy named Winnie to help fill the void.

Unexpectedly, Josh received a call last Tuesday after Belle was scanned for her microchip. “Never give up hope,” he advised other pet owners in similar situations. “I had no idea where Belle had gone, but she’s back with me now, and that’s all that matters.”

Upon her return, Josh noted that Belle was in poor condition, covered in concrete dust and paint, with matted fur.

Fortunately, she has since been cleaned up and appears happy to return home. She is adjusting well alongside Winnie, the puppy they got while searching for her.

Josh expressed gratitude to the thousands who shared Belle’s picture online, stating, “Without their help, who knows if Belle would be here now?”

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