Raising Awareness of Dog Theft

Today, Thursday the 14th of March is Dog Theft Awareness Day and we would like to shed some light on pet theft and how we can avoid it.

According to a Government report from 2021, a staggering 2,000 dogs are stolen in the UK every year in England and Wales alone.

This week, our mission is to arm pet owners with knowledge and tips to combat this distressing trend and safeguard their beloved companions from falling prey to such crimes.

Here are some practical tips to enhance your dog’s safety:

• Microchip Your Dog: Ensure your animal is microchipped, and always keep the registration information updated, especially if you relocate or change contact details. (microchipping in dogs over 8 weeks of age has been compulsory in England, Scotland and Wales since 6 April 2016)
• Vary Walking Routes: Mix up your dog walking routine. Avoid predictable patterns by exploring different routes each day (if this works for you and your dog), reducing the likelihood of being targeted.
• Secure Your Property: Maintain secure fencing around your gardens, and never leave your dog unattended outdoors. Prevent opportunistic theft by minimising chances for someone to snatch your pet. Consider having cameras in your home.
• Avoid Leaving Your Dog Alone unattended somewhere in public: Refrain from leaving your dog tied up outside shops or in your vehicle. Keeping them close reduces the risk of theft and ensures their safety.

Let’s spread awareness about dog theft prevention. Together, we can make a difference and keep our beloved companions safe from harm.