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The Kenilworth department of the most important canine welfare charity Dogs Trust is giving steerage to house owners in a bid to stop a lot liked pets from being separated from their households.
This Thursday (March 14) is Dogs Theft Awareness Day and, in keeping with a recent report by insurance coverage firm Direct Line, 2,290 dogs have been stolen throughout the UK in 2023 – a six per cent improve on 2022.
However, regardless of the very distressing nature of getting a canine stolen, pet theft just isn’t a selected crime.
Currently, the crime of stealing a canine is handled in the identical approach because the theft of home items reminiscent of telephones and bikes, with out contemplating the large emotional influence dropping a pet has on households and people.
For many years, Dogs Trust has referred to as for harsher penalties to discourage those that revenue from the theft of dogs.
Earlier this 12 months, a Private Members Bill, that has cross-party assist obtained its second studying within the Houses of Parliament.
If profitable, this is able to result in pet theft turning into a selected offence.
Maria Murray, Associate Director Prevention and Community Engagement at Dogs Trust says:
“Having your beloved pet stolen is an extremely stressful, often heart-breaking experience. For many owners, pets are members of the family, and being separated from them, without knowing where they are, is devastating.
“It’s disappointing to hear that pet theft is on the rise, but by following a few simple tips, you can reduce the chances of this despicable crime happening to you. Never leave your dog unattended, especially in a public area, and if you are walking them off lead, always keep them in sight. You should also be careful with what details you share online about your canine companions.
“Not only is it a legal requirement for your dog to be microchipped and to wear an ID tag while out in public, but these two simple steps will also help to get your dog home to you as quickly as possible if the worst does happen.”
