Arleta Family Distraught Over Toy Poodle Taken During Home Burglary

ARLETA (CBSLA.com) — Authorities Thursday were seeking the public's help in finding a toy poodle that was taken from a family's Arleta home during a burglary earlier this month.

The 6-year-old dog named Tequila was stolen March 5 at Felix Sierra's home on Pinney Street.

Sierra held back tears as he spoke about the dog that's been a part of his family for years.

"We had her since she was very little. And she was very important for everybody," he said. "You cannot replace her."

LAPD Officer Kelli Pickart said the culprit broke in through a window and ransacked the residence. An estimated $10,000 worth of valuables were taken.

"It was bad enough to take this family's computer, but to take their precious pet; it's really maddening," Pickart said.

Anyone with information on the incident was asked to contact Pickart at (818) 838-9864.

"You're not gonna get anybody in trouble if you just turn in the dog. We won't even ask you for your name," she said.

Sierra said he just wants Tequila back and has offered a reward for her return.

"I hope someday we can find her soon. And to the person who has it…no questions asked. Just bring it back…give us a call and we'll pick it up," he said.

Meantime, Pickart said the burglary is the third within the last year where a dog was taken.

"We've been lucky to find two other dogs and return them to the owners," she said.