FMPD searching for pet store puppy thief

The Fort Myers Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a man wanted for stealing a puppy from Pet Kingdom.

The thief was caught on video entering the store at approximately 11:45 a.m. on Thursday.

“This person, unfortunately took advantage of that aspect of our store, and he reached in and he put a dog under a sweater that he had draped over himself, and then he walked right out the door,” said General Manager Bree Zaveller.

Authorities said he took a 4-month-old black and grey Maltipoo puppy from the store.

“We do try to keep the lids of our puppy pens open because it helps with socialization of the animals, and we find that it gets them into a home a lot sooner, when people are able to pet them and see their personality,” said Zaveller.

Police also provided an image of the stolen puppy.

Dog lovers agree, this dog needed a home but didn’t need to find it this way.

” I feel like they like, know they were gonna get caught because, like, they’re on videotape. Like, I feel like he’s gonna be found eventually,” said one animal lover.

If you recognize this man or this puppy, contact Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers at 1-800-780-8477. You can also submit tips online or on the P3 Tips mobile app. Remember, you can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward.