A 79-year-old woman has been reunited with her pet dogs after her vehicle was stolen from a carpark in Narre Warren last night.
The two shelties, 5-year-old Lucy and 2-year-old Darcy, were left in the distinctive lime-green Hyundai Kona while their owner was swimming at a leisure centre at Westfield Fountain Gate between 5.30-7.30pm.
It is believed that sometime during the two-hour window, thieves have entered the changerooms of the swimming complex and made off with the victim's car keys and phone.
The offender or offenders have then stolen the victim's SUV, with registration 1OH 3WF, with the pooches inside.
Last night a member of the public located the dogs on the street nearby and looked after them overnight until they could be collected by a ranger this morning.
Police contacted The Lost Dog's Home in Cranbourne West and were advised the pups were there safe and sound.
Investigators are still searching for the stolen car and have released an image of a similar vehicle.
Anyone who witnessed the incident, has dashcam/CCTV footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
