Rita Hines' Pomeranian-poodle mix named Madge was stolen from her condo on February 18 when burglars forced their way into her home by removing a screen.

"They didn't knock anything over when they crawled through the window," Hines said.  "So they must have been pretty small to get through."

After getting inside, the thieves stole -- among other things -- a laptop, an old VCR and a digital camera. All of those things were replaceable, Hines said, but the puppy was not.

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"I just couldn't believe they took my dog," Hines said.  "She's like part of your family.  Your animals are part of your family."

Since the dog was taken, Hines has been visiting shelters in the hopes that Madge turns up.  So far there's been no luck.

"I'm going to keep looking for her," Hines said.  "And if I see her I will know her."

Hines pleaded with the people who took her dog to return it.

"I know you're not a dog lover and I don't think you're treating her like a pet because you never would have taken her if you had your own pet," Hines said.

She asked that the thieves return the dog to her patio and close the gate.

Hines said the dog did have tags and a microchip, which leaves her hopeful that she'll see her dog again.

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