Race is on to find stolen doggy day care van carrying 6 dogs

CHICAGO, IL -- Chicago police are searching for two men who stole a doggy day care van at gunpoint and drove off with at least six dogs inside.

PHOTOS: Van stolen with 6 dogs inside

Police said two armed men took off with the unoccupied van that was left running near Grand and Odgen avenues around 4 p.m. Wednesday.

An employee from Urban Out Sitters said he tried to stop the thieves, but they pulled out a gun. The van did not have any company markings.

"I couldn't comprehend what that meant. I called her back immediately and she told me what happened and I was just in shock," said Tad Tomita. "I'm really worried she may not survive the night if we can't find her."

The owners of the dogs are pleading for the thieves to leave the van in a safe place so the pets can be found.

Police gave only a vague description of the suspects, who are believed to be between 18-25 years old.

The van that was stolen is a 2002 silver Chrysler Town & Country with Illinois license plate R18 8669.

The company offers pet boarding, day care, and dog walking services.