Is your dog at risk?

How big is the problem?

A third of all dogs reported missing are recorded as stolen. There are many owners
throughout Britain who have been affected by dognapping. If you own a dog, it’s
important you take precautions to minimise the risk.

Why are dogs stolen?

It is shocking that anyone would want to steal a dog. Most thefts are opportunistic
but some are carefully planned. In almost all cases, they are financially motivated.
Few owners can put a price on the value of their dog as they are a member of the family, but many owners are willing to pay for the safe return of a stolen dog. Unfortunately Pets Bureau fears this could be encouraging this type of crime.

How to minimise the risks

First, register your dog for the Pet Protection Service from Pets Bureau. This will help protect your identity and reduce the possibility of ransom demands if your dog is stolen. Next, have your dog microchipped by your vet. This will provide another secure, but invisible, means of identification.

Top five tips for tackling dog theft
Take extra care on walks and vary your routes.Avoid letting your dog out of sight.Secure your garden so people cannot get in and your dog can’t escape.Never leave your dog unattended.Have your dog spayed/neutered so they cannot be targeted for breeding.

What to do if your dog is stolen

Report your stolen dog to the Police and local Dog warden. Make sure you get a crime reference number.

The dog breeds most targeted by dognappers are:Staffordshire Bull TerriersJack RussellsGerman Shepherd DogsLabradors RottweilersBorder Collies Border TerriersSpringer SpanielsWest Highland TerriersYorkshire Terriers

Are cross breeds at risk?

It is not just pedigree dogs that are targeted by dognappers. A cross breed is no less valuable to its owner and this means any dog could potentially be at risk. Thirty-five per cent of dogs that are stolen are cross breeds.