14/03/2023
The sad reality is that thieves often target pets. - either to sell them to unsuspecting new owners and as part of scams to claim any reward that might be offered for their return.
Ways to Prevent Dog Theft:
• Keep an eye on your dog.
• Don’t leave your dog alone outside shops, and in your car.
• Don’t leave your dog unattended in the garden, make your garden secure, ensure there are no gaps to escape – Lock gates where possible.
• Try walk your dog on the inner side of the pavement to prevent grab theft.
• Vary your walking habits, change the times you walk your dog or mix up the routes you take.
• Train your dog to come back when called.
• Microchip your dog (legal requirement) and make sure your details up to date.
• Dog collars - must include your name and address, it is optional to include your phone number. For added security avoid putting your dog’s name on the tag.
• Take photos of your dog clearly showing any identifiable markings
• Take care to choose someone reputable to look after your dog if you are placing your pet in boarding or hiring dog walkers.
• Puppies - be extra vigilant, as puppies are more attractive to thieves as they are easier to sell on.
• Pedigree breeds are also a higher demand for thieves.
What to do if your dog is stolen
• Check your home and local area thoroughly. (Most cases they have just wandered off)
• Report it to the police as soon as possible if you believe your pet has been stolen -Remember to ask for a crime number.
• Contact your Microchip company to report them as stolen.
• Report it to your local dog warden, as well as your local vets, animal hospitals and any rehoming centres.
• Post on social media – post to websites for lost & found animals, get as many of your friends to share your posts, include various photos of your pet clearly showing any identifiable markings including dates/times/place they were last seen.
• Tell as many people as possible - Make other dog walkers in you area aware, Make posters and display them in local areas, make sure you include photos of your dog from various angles, identifying any markings, including dates/times/place they were last seen.
