A rescue dog that was reportedly stolen and found during a thunderstorm could be finding her forever home.

Nine-year-old Zoey, who is a mix of a Jack Russell and Poodle Cross was stolen from the National Animal Welfare Trust (NAWT) located on Tylers Way last Tuesday night (August 11).

The charity said that after staff performed final night patrols on Tuesday, thieves gained access to the rehoming yard and stole Zoey.

But NAWT said the dog was found late at night on Thursday (August 13) when she was spotted wandering down the A41 during a thunderstorm.

Watford Observer:

Zoey reunited with centre staff. Credit: NAWT

Centre Manager, Jackie De Friez, said she has now be reunited with staff but when she was found she was "frightened" and "panicked".

She added: "She was utterly soaked and disorientated but otherwise she was unharmed as far as we can tell."

When returned, Zoey was put back in her kennel, given a warm duvet and staff made her cooked chicked which they said is her favourite meal.

Jackie added: "She was utterly soaked and disorientated but otherwise she was unharmed as far as we can tell.

Watford Observer:

Zoey safely returned home. Credit: NAWT

Watford Observer:

Zoey being welcomed back by the staff. Credit: NAWT

"After the first 24 hours she managed to settle back down. As you can imagine, she's had lots of walks, cuddles and attention from all the staff."

Jackie added that Zoey might find her forever home after a long-term volunteer said they were interested in adopting.

Watford Observer:

Zoey before she was stolen. Credit: NAWT

She added: "When she was found we were relieved, we didn't know what she was intended to be used for, and human nature being what it is, we thought the worst.

"We were worried she’d be killed or dumped if she became too hot to handle but equally, had to do all we to get the word out that she’d been taken."