Dogs Trust Kenilworth points recommendation forward of Dog Theft Awareness Day

The Kenilworth department of the main canine welfare charity Dogs Trust is giving steerage to homeowners in a bid to forestall a lot liked pets from being separated from their households.

This Thursday (March 14) is Dogs Theft Awareness Day and, in line 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 shouldn’t be a particular crime.

Currently, the crime of stealing a canine is handled in the identical method because the theft of home items comparable to telephones and bikes, with out contemplating the large emotional influence shedding a pet has on households and people.

For many years, Dogs Trust has known as for harsher penalties to discourage those that revenue from the theft of dogs.

Earlier this yr, a Private Members Bill, that has cross-party assist acquired its second studying within the Houses of Parliament.

If profitable, this is able to result in pet theft changing into a particular 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.”