HOULTON – Police on Thursday were investigating the theft overnight of a puppy from the Houlton Animal Shelter on Callaghan Road.

The 2-month-old black male mixed-breed dog closely resembles a purebred German shepherd, according to Officer Mark Ganzel, who is investigating the incident.

He said the dog, which answers to the name Grunt, has some tan-colored markings on its stomach, legs and face. It was wearing a blue collar. The dog was neutered a few weeks ago and weights between 20 and 25 pounds.

Whoever stole the dog pried open a rear window to gain entry to the shelter, causing about $200 in damage, the officer said. The person also left through the window.

None of the other 15 to 20 dogs and cats in the shelter were bothered. Ganzel also said the person who entered the building did not touch any of the pet food or pet medications in the building.

Anyone with information on the incident or the whereabouts of the dog should contact Houlton police at 532-2287.