The decision to take Alfie to the vet rather than taking him home to Richard’s partner Kate and their children, was met with outrage (Picture: Bring Alfie Home)Greater Manchester Police initially said the force’s hands were tied due to legal issues, and there was no further action that could be taken to return Alfie from his new owners, Wigan Today reported.

The advert stated that Richard had passed away (Picture: Bring Alfie Home)‘A 30 year old man was taken to hospital and the man’s dog was left with police.

Michael was attacked by two robbers who tried to steal his puppy Alfie (Picture: JustGiving)A police spokesman said the victim was walking along a footpath between 7.30am and 8.30am when two men tried to steal his dog Alfie, a German shorthaired pointer believed to be worth around £3,000.