The RSPCA has issued anti-theft advice to pet owners following a spike in dognapping.
Data provided by West Midlands Police report claims 18 dog theft offences have already been reported in the period between the 1st of April 2020 and the 31st of March 2021. None of the dogs have been recovered.
West Midlands Police also reported 23 cases, between 2018 and 2019.
Research conducted by Dogs Trust in November revealed the sales of the UK’s most ‘desirable dog breeds’ peaked in October.
The costs of these canines also increased with the Chow Chows breed costing £2,618 in October compared to £1,119 in March.
Advertising of these ‘desired dogs’ rose by 71% across the UK’s top pet selling websites.
During the same period cases of dog theft increased around the West Midlands, leaving RSPCA Staff like Amy De-Keyzer to suggest ways for pet owners to prevent their dog from being stolen. She said:
“We would encourage all dog owners to take extra precautions to protect their pooches from thieves by neutering their pets, ensuring they are microchipped with up-to-date contact details registered, ensuring they wear a collar with contact details embroidered or an engraved ID tag.”
How to keep dogs safe from theft
For pet owners that are worried about the possible chance of their pet being stolen here are some tips from the RSPCA:
Don’t leave your dog alone outside a shop or in a car.
Teach your dog a reliable recall for when walking.
Check that your garden is secure such as installing locks on gates.
Neuter your pet to avoid roaming.
Make sure your pet is wearing a collar ID with your name and address. This is a legal requirement.
Microchip your pet with your recent details. This is also a legal requirement.
She added: “Anyone who suspects their dog may have been stolen should immediately alert police, contact their microchip company to register their pet as stolen and inform local rescue groups, vets, dog walkers and neighbours.”