Pet Theft…….how to reduce the risks.
When Spring and summer arrive, the days get longer, the weather becomes hopefully warmer, and life becomes a little more sociable. So perhaps it would be prudent to be aware of pet theft and what can be done to reduce the possibility of it happening to you and your beloved pets. In this article, we’ll present some helpful tips and steps you can take to reduce the risk.
Take the necessary security steps
In many countries around the world, to reduce Pet Theft, legally, dogs must have an identification microchip, which should be up to date. If you’ve not had your dog since birth, perhaps you got them from a rescue organisation or from a previous owner, make sure that the details are correct, i.e. you are recorded as the registered owner etc. Your local vet can help with this.
ID Tag
Invest in a good-quality collar and identification tag. Keep the engraved contact details and address up to date. If you change your telephone number, remember to update the tag. Be sure to NEVER include the dog’s name. You don’t want to assist a thief in getting friendly with your dog.
Keep Photos
Take regular photos of your dog from different angles. Try to include photos of yourself with your dog, as this can help you prove ownership quickly if necessary.
Be careful where you leave your dog alone.
This seems like an obvious one: Try not to leave your dog alone when popping into the shops or leaving them waiting in the car unless you can do so securely. Studies show that this is one of the most common pet theft situations, as dog thieves are often opportunists.
Protect Your Home
Check your home protection. If your dog is left alone while you are out, consider turning on the TV or radio. Not only does it give the impression that your home is occupied, but it can also be comforting for your dog. If necessary, consider a timer to have the lights switch on automatically when it gets dark. Many smart devices make this easy these days.
Fences & Gates
Make sure that your garden fences are secure and in good condition. If you have a garden gate, consider having a bell attached. Don’t leave your dog in the garden unattended, or at least make sure that it can be kept in view.
When Out Walking
Things to consider when you’re out walking with your dog. Dogs must have good recall training before they can be off the lead. Consider using a long lead if necessary.
Switch your walking routes as much as possible, and if possible, walk with someone else.
Be wary of strangers who approach you and ask lots of questions about your dog. This is not a question of being antisocial; you’ll recognise genuine questions.
Dog Sitters, etc.
Take care when arranging for someone to look after your dogs, such as house sitters or dog walkers, and even when selecting a kennel for holiday stays. Get someone you know well, or if that’s not possible, it is wise to get references, read reviews and get recommendations for such needs from a trusted friend.
What to do if the worst happens?
If pet theft happens to you, what should you do?
Check your home, garden and the local area.
Call the police and get a crime reference number.
Report that your dog is missing from the relevant microchip database.
Inform local animal wardens, shelters, rescue centres and vet practices – just in case the thief has a change of heart!
Social media can be powerful these days; ask your family and friends to spread the word far and wide.
Consider having posters and leaflets circulated.
Register your dog as missing, or if you find a lost dog with no apparent owner
In the UK, pet theft is a criminal offence under the Theft Act of 1968 and carries a 7-year imprisonment. Many other countries have similar legislation, too.
Thankfully, the law now recognises that pet theft causes undue emotional pain to both the dog and its owner(s).
Hopefully, with a little care, it’s not something you’ll have to experience.
References:
Dog Theft, practical ways to reduce your risk
RSPCA – Pet Theft.