Editor’s note: The stolen dogs have been found, read the update here
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Four show dogs set to compete in the Rose City Dog Show are missing after the Mercedes van they were in was stolen early Saturday in North Portland.
The dark blue 2020 Mercedes-Benz Metris cargo van was left running in the parking lot of the Oxford Suites at Jantzen Beach when it was taken around 7:45 a.m., Portland police said. Four terriers were in crates inside the Mercedes.
The dogs’ owners, visiting from King County, Washington, were in Portland to take part in the Rose City Classic Winter Dog Show at the Expo Center. Three of the dogs are Scottish terriers while the other is a Cairn terrier. Two are black/brown, one is black and the other is brown, and all weigh about 22 pounds, officials said.
Vandra Huber, who co-owns the terriers, told KOIN 6 News she was getting ready for the dog show when someone hopped in the running Mercedes and took off.
“As far as I’m concerned, it’s just like somebody stealing your child away from you,” Huber said. “They could have the van for all I care. It’s that I couldn’t have human children. So for 40 years, I’ve been breeding Scottish terriers. And these little puppies are 6-months-old. They’ve done really well at the show. And besides that, I’ve had fun. But they’re my children.”
Though there were no outside license plates on the van, investigators said a Washington DMV temporary tag in the rear window had the number E0768146. Inside were Washington plates CFU1337. Authorities added the license plate frames had light blue dealer placards with the words, “Soundford.com in Renton” displayed.
Additionally, the front window displayed a handicap sign and a Rose City Dog Show parking lot.
Inside the Mercedes are tinted windows and a metal divider between the passenger compartment and cargo area.
KOIN 6 News learned there is now a reward being offered for the safe return of the dogs.
Authorities ask anyone with reason to believe they have seen the stolen van to call 911. Tips can also be sent by email: crimetips@police.portlandoregon.gov and to mention case number 23-19222.