Guide dogs lead the way for the visually impaired

Qiaoqiao, a 7-year-old Labrador retriever, is finally reunited with its owner after it was stolen by an organized gang of dog thieves on Feb 22, 2016. [Photo by Peng Ziyang / for China Daily]

A guide dog that was stolen from a blind masseur in Beijing was returned with a note from the dognappers that said "please forgive us". The event puts spotlight on guide dogs in China.

The 7-year-old black Labrador, named Qiaoqiao, was stolen by an organized gang of dog thieves on Monday, the Beijing Public Security Bureau said on Tuesday.

Shunyi district police investigated after receiving the call from Qiaoqiao's owner. The bureau posted Qiaoqiao's information on the Internet and asked for public assistance.

Guide dogs, often Labradors or golden retrievers, are sent to foster families when they are puppies and are socialized for nearly a year. Dogs that show promise receive another year of training.

The dognappers are still at large.