Demand for dogs has skyrocketed in lockdown. Dog thefts are now believed to be at an unprecedented high. Puppies are stolen for an immediate sale. Adult dogs are used for breeding on puppy farms, these animals are kept in poor and overcrowded conditions, which lead to health issues further down the line. If the dog stolen is of no value, then it will be discarded somewhere or sadly used as a bait dog. These dog nappers do not care that our dogs are family members.

 Thieves use different ways to try and steal dogs.

 Let’s have a look at some of those ways.

• Back garden. Don’t assume your garden is safe. Low fences near a road will not be a problem for a thief. Check if gates are secure and locked. They can be blown open by strong winds.
• Car. Never leave your dog unattended in a car. Thieves will quite happily smash a window to get at your dog.
• Tied up outside. Leaving your dog tied up outside alone in a public place will increase the chances of your dog being taken. If approached with a friendly kind manner, they will likely go with the stranger.
• In a park. Always keep an eye on your dog. In a busy park, it is easy to lose sight of your dog and that is when the thieves take advantage.

Now we know how thieves operate, let’s make it hard for them.

What can we do to help prevent our dogs from being stolen?

• Microchip. In April 2016 a law was introduced and stated that all dogs over the age of 8 weeks must be microchipped. This will not deter thieves, but it will identify your dog if it is found. Unfortunately, it has come to my attention, the thieves are scanning the dogs to locate the chip. They are then making a small incision and removing the chip and replacing a new one. Someone has recommended putting some of your dog’s fur/hair in a sealed bag and date it, also, add your dog’s microchip number and keep it safe, your dog’s DNA cannot be changed. You can then prove beyond any reasonable doubt that it’s your dog.
• Walking your dog. Vary your walking pattern. If a thief can see that you walk your dog at the same time, same place every day, they will be able to track and plan. Walk-in a group, safety in numbers.
• Strangers. Be wary of strangers (you know this already) however, it’s nice to hear compliments about your dog. They will ask to stroke and talk to your dog. It is ok to say no! Don’t be afraid of offending anyone, you and your dog’s safety are paramount.
• Legal Deterrent. Thieves want to steal your dog quickly and as quietly as possible. Try and let everyone and anyone in the area what is happening. So, if possible carry a personal attack siren, spray, bodycam, loud whistle.

What to do if your dog is lost/stolen.

There are things you can do to find them. Make your dog too hot to handle.

• Report your dog missing to the database Petlog. They will notify you when your dog is found.
• Post on social media to raise awareness. Local community groups will share information.
• Put up posters in your local area. If your dog has a distinguishing mark, then highlight them. (I have taken photos of my own dogs; Millie has an incredibly unique mark on her back and Dutchess has a webbed paw and her bottom teeth are slightly crooked) I would recognise them anywhere.
• Search common hiding places in your neighbourhood. Ask anyone you see if they might have seen your dog.
• Report to police. If you believe your dog has been stolen you will receive a crime reference number. They will investigate the precise nature of the theft.

What would you do if you found a lost dog?

Let us help it get back home.

• If the dog has a collar, start by calling/texting the number. You can visit a vet and ask them to scan for a microchip.
• Take a photo of the dog and post it on social media. Facebook has a lot of lost and found sections.
• While being safe, walk the dog around that neighbourhood, someone may recognise it.
• Call or take it to the local animal shelter.

REMEMBER: ALWAYS STAY SAFE & BE VIGILANT