Vets devastated after thieves steal ashes of beloved pet gerbil

Alistair's remains had been kept in the office safe since the revered rodent died from old age about 18 months ago.

But his ashes along with the urn and a quantity of cash were stolen during a raid on Vets 4 Pets on East Cannock Road in the early hours of Tuesday.

Distraught staff turned to police and social media in an effort to locate the ornate palm-sized gold and white urn.

A desperate Facebook appeal for information attracted more than 25,000 hits in less than 24 hours, said practice manager Susan Lunn.

The appeal read: "This is a very unusual post from us but we were hoping our clients and fb followers may be able to help.

"One item taken was identical to this picture. Although the item looks decorative or like it may be worth something financially, it is a small urn (around two inches in length and width) which contains the ashes of our beloved Alistair, a practice pet.

"We were hoping that as many people as possible will share this post so if anyone receives this item as a Christmas gift or sees this being sold locally or on the Internet please let us know.

"We are really keen to have Alistair returned home where he belongs."

Ms Lunn, 39, said the black gerbil had been gifted to the practice after vets treated him for a short illness seven years ago.

She said: "We all fell in love with him instantly and the owner said we could keep him.

"All our clients got to know him and would always ask after him if they didn't see him in his cage on the front desk.

"He really was part of the team here since we got him as a tiny little ball of fluff.

"He was well-looked after here and died at the grand old age of seven, about the maximum age gerbils live for, suffering from the effects of old age.

"The thieves probably had no idea what was in the urn when they took it and it has little or no monetary value in itself.

"Alistair was a special pet and the only memories I have left of him now is his old cage and a few of his toys.

"I would urge people to please contact police or the practice if someone tries to sell them the urn as an ornament."

Anyone with information is asked to contact the practice on 01543 424100.