It's not unusual to hear of shoplifting at the mall but dog snatching is another thing.

The pet store at University Park Mall in Mishawaka says a customer stole a Chihuahua and they want it back!

The store has surveillance video that shows the entire thing.

Pat's Pets employees say last Tuesday a woman came in with another friend and child. The three wanted to play with a Chihuahua.

The store believes one woman hid the puppy in her purse while they were in the “puppy room.” She then walked out of the store with the puppy hidden in her bag.

When the store employee tried to stop her she told him her friends were still playing with the puppy in the “puppy room.” It wasn’t until the puppy was long gone that the store realized the woman had stolen the dog.

“In this case this person flat out lied said it was still in the room and then walked out.. it is uncomfortable as business owner and pet lover,” comments Craig Smith, manager from Pat’s Pets.

“I ask myself that all the time... Why would somebody take a dog? Honestly probably what they wanted. Economy is tight.. instead of being honest they decided to be a little deceiving,” says Michael Pearce from the store.

The woman that stayed behind was cooperative with police and gave them the suspect’s information. Police have yet to track down the woman who allegedly stole the dog though.

The Chihuahua is only four months old, weighs two pounds, and has black and white fur. Store employees say they are worried about his well fare since he is a special needs dog with a finicky diet.

If you have any information regarding this case please call Mishawaka Police at (574)258-1678.