Dogs Trust Ilfracombe offers guidance for Dog Theft Awareness Day

Dog Theft Awareness Day commences this Thursday, March 14, and Dogs Trust Ilfracombe has stepped up to provide vital advice to pet owners amidst rising concerns over dog theft incidents across the nation.

With recent statistics revealing a concerning six per cent increase in dog thefts reported in 2023 compared to the previous year, reaching a staggering 2,290 cases nationwide, the urgency to protect beloved pets has never been more palpable.

Despite the emotional toll pet theft inflicts on families, the current legal framework treats dog theft akin to the theft of inanimate objects, failing to address the profound impact it has on individuals and communities.

In response, Dogs Trust has long advocated for stricter penalties to deter potential offenders. Earlier this year, a Private Members Bill, backed by cross-party support, marked a significant step towards making pet theft a distinct offence under the law.

To empower owners in safeguarding their furry companions, Dogs Trust Ilfracombe has issued comprehensive guidance:

• Secure Your Premises: Ensure your property boundaries are fortified to prevent intruders from gaining access to your dog.
• Supervise Outdoor Activities: Keep a vigilant eye on your dog when they're in the garden, avoiding unsupervised outdoor time.
• Social Media Caution: Regularly review privacy settings on social media platforms to prevent inadvertently sharing identifiable information about your pet's whereabouts.
• Exercise Awareness: Exercise caution during outdoor activities, ensuring your dog remains within sight and has reliable recall abilities.
• Avoid Public Unattended: Never leave your dog alone in public spaces or unattended in a vehicle, minimising the risk of theft or harm.
• Identification Measures: Ensure your dog is easily identifiable with a collar tag containing your contact information and is microchipped with up-to-date details.

Should the unthinkable occur and your dog is stolen, Dogs Trust advises immediate action:

• Report to Authorities: Notify the police, ensuring the theft is registered as a criminal act, and report to local authorities and microchip databases.
• Engage Community Support: Reach out to local rescue centres, veterinary practices, and animal charities for assistance.
• Monitor Potential Sale Sites: Keep an eye on online platforms and pet shops where stolen dogs might be sold, promptly informing the authorities of any suspicious activity.
• Utilise Support Networks: Tap into resources like DogLost and missing animal websites for guidance and support in the search for your missing pet.

Maria Murray, Associate Director of Prevention and Community Engagement at Dogs Trust, said: “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. 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.”