Increase in pet thefts

22 February 2012

According to the Dog Lost helpline 20 to 30 dogs a day were reported as missing in 2011. This is double the number reported in 2010. The current economic climate is thought to be a potential cause in the sharp increase, with pedigree dogs being resold for many hundreds of pounds. High risk dogs include puppies of any breed, Yorkshire Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, German Shepherds and Labradors. Working Cocker Spaniels and gun dogs are targeted because of their high market value. Pedigree cats are also thought to be the target of thieves.

Losing a much loved pet is very distressing. You should make sure your
house and garden is secure to help to deter thieves, and avoid leaving
dogs unattended in cars or outside shops. Some insurance company
policies will cover the cost of advertising for lost pets as well as
rewards. We strongly recommend Identichipping your pet
as this helps in tracing lost pets that have been found. Each
chip contains a unique number that is held on a computer
database together with contact details for the owner. All vets 
and rescue centres have microchip readers - a simple scan
can quickly help to reunite a lost pet with their owner. It is
important to keep your contact details up to date, so if your pet
is microchipped and you move home or changed your telephone
number,make sure you inform the microchip company.