Dog theft bill consultation opens
The new legislation could increase punishment and improve safety for dogs and their owners
Last updated 24th Oct 2022
The consultation period for the introduction of a law specifically in relation to dog theft has opened after the bill was lodged in Holyrood.
MSP Maurice Golden wants to bring in new legislation which would make the stealing of a beloved pet dog a crime in its own right.
The intention of that new law would be to increase punishment of those guilty of the crime, increase deterrence, and improve safety for dogs and their owners across Scotland.
The bill has the backing of major animal welfare charities and the support of MSPs from all five parties at the Scottish Parliament.
Having opened today, the consultation period will now last around 12 weeks, before the bill moves to the next stage on its journey to becoming full legislation.
The official launch took place today at the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home.
Some charities estimate dog theft rose by 170 per cent during lockdown.
But because there is no central data collection point, firm statistics have been hard to source, another area the bill will seek to address.
Today’s consultation document sets out the terms of the proposed legislation, contains the input of a number of animal charities, and the position in relation to the current law.
It also analyses the situation in other countries where similar legislation is in force.
Scottish Conservative MSP Maurice Golden said: “Right now in Scotland, the law considers the theft of a dog as if they were just another household commodity.
“But they are worth so much more, and it’s time the law reflected that.
“We know that lockdown led more people to getting a beloved family pet, and for many that will have helped get them through a difficult time and brought great pleasure to their lives going forward.
“But it has also brought an increased risk of theft.
“Anyone who’s had a dog stolen will tell you just how traumatic and distressing an experience it is.
“We need to deter criminals from this kind of behaviour and punish severely those who do it.
“As it stands, too many are getting away with it and think it’s a risk worth taking.
“That needs to change, and I hope my new bill will get through parliament, become law, and help give our best friends the protection and status they deserve.”
Lindsay Fyffe-Jardine, chief executive of the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, said: “Dogs are a beloved member of our family and at Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home we know first-hand the distress someone experiences when they are lost or stolen.
“Our pets are a source of companionship, loyalty, love and joy in our lives, and they make our family whole.
“To experience dog theft is an unspeakable loss, not to mention the worry of what has happened to them after.
“We’re delighted to see such a big step forward in the protection of dogs with this dog theft bill.