Owner’s world has ‘just crumbled’
A THERAPY dog stolen from a schoolgirl with autism, prompting an appeal from TV presenter Chris Packham, has been found dead.
Three-year-old dalmatian Lottie was taken from the home of Chloe Hopkins, 12, in early December.
An appeal to find her went viral when Springwatch host Packham backed it.
Chloe’s mother, Gemma Hopkins, said yesterday that Lottie’s body had been found.
The family were given the news in a phone call on Sunday after Lottie’s microchip was scanned by a vet.
She said they were awaiting further information on how Lottie died.
The treasured pet vanished thieves broke into the family’s home in Peatling Parva, Leics.
The dog’s bed was also taken. After making an appeal for Lottie’s return, Gemma received sick phone calls and texts saying the dog was dead.
But she received support of thousands
APPEAL Chris Packham the of after animal lovers, including BBC Packham, who has Asperger’s.
He posted a video on Twitter on Christmas Eve, appealing to his 367,000 followers to help find Lottie.
Gemma wrote online after seeing Lottie’s body: “Having to identify her was the hardest thing I’ve done. We never wanted this ending.
“We kept hopeful. Goodbye my crazy bunch of spots. I’ve spent the last 24 hours just numb and devastated.
“We told Chloe after school last night and she broke down. She hasn’t stopped crying and shut herself in her room.
“When Lottie was stolen Chloe was constantly on edge, not sleeping – and her whole world’s just crumbled.” Gemma says she plans to buy her daughter a new dog once she has grieved enough for Lottie.
Leicestershire Police said Lottie was found in a layby in Countesthorpe, a few miles from the Hopkins’ family home.
PC Robin Bonell said: “I would still like to speak to anyone who
may have information.” host
ALL GROWN UP Lottie in recent pic