Pricey pooch recovered in West Haven

WEST HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) -- A pricey puppy that was stolen from Puppies of Westport has been recovered.

After receiving numerous tips, police said the English bulldog was recovered from a West Haven home on July 9th.

The individual who police say stole the puppy, using his young son as an accomplice, has not yet been apprehended.

After initial investigation, it is believed that the thief sold the puppy to an initially unsuspecting family from West Haven for $1,000.

While police say the family was not immediately aware that the puppy was stolen, they received numerous calls from friends and neighbors who believed it was the stolen puppy seen via various news outlets.

Additionally, police say there is strong evidence that the family told at least one person that they weren't interested in returning the puppy.

When police arrived at the West Haven home to investigate they were told the bulldog was not there.

The puppy was then observed locked out on an upper back porch in 95 degree heat, and extremely unhealthy conditions for an English bulldog.

When police spotted the puppy, they entered the home and verified the identity by scanning its microchip.

After receiving antibiotic treatment for dehydration and a minor cough, the puppy is now back in the store.