Protect your pooch: New safety scheme to keep Dorset pets safe
Neighbourhood Watch give tips on keeping dogs "secure, in sight and searchable"
Since the pandemic began there has been an increase in the number of dogs being stolen from their owners in Dorset
Charity DogLost, that helps victims of dog theft, recorded a 170% increase in the crime, from the 172 dogs reported stolen in 2019 to 495 dogs in 2020.
Right now, dog theft isn't a crime as dogs are classed as 'property' under the 1968 Theft Act. Those caught stealing a pet are penalised with a small fine or suspended sentence.
DOG THEFTS IN DORSET
Dorset Police have had reports of 34 dogs being stolen in the past year to March 2021. The highest taken in a month was seven in March this year and six in November last year.
The Association of Police and Crime Commissioners, supported by forces across the country carried out a national survey on dog thefts in the last year.
27,440 people (22% of the 124, 729 people who responded) have had a dog stolen or knew someone who had over the last year.
79% of people to whom the question was applicable said they had grown more fearful of taking their dog for a walk during the day.
An even greater number, 83%, have grown more fearful of taking their dog for a walk at night.
KEEP YOUR POOCH SAFE
Neighbourhood Watch have pulled together some top tips to reduce the chances of a dog theft happening.
SECURE
- Pets are easily stolen from a garden when left unattended, even if for just a few minutes. Front gardens are very vulnerable. Fit a bell or gate alarm to any rear or side gates; the gates should be secured with British Standard locks, locking bolts or closed shackle padlocks.
- Secure your garden boundary to prevent your dog from escaping or a thief from reaching in and taking your dog out.
- As well as a lock, consider fitting a bell or small alarm to outside kennels to warn you of any tampering.
- Be particularly careful of sharing or publicly posting on social media details of where you live, the type of dog you have and where you walk.
IN SIGHT
- Never leave your dog unattended in a car – especially on warm days – as it is not just dangerous for their health but allows them to be easily targeted by thieves.
- Leaving your dog alone outside a shop is another easy opportunity for a thief, even if you are only away for a minute.
- Varying the times and routes you take when walking your dog.
- Be careful of strangers asking you a lot of questions when you are walking your dog – they could be distracting you to make it easy for them to steal your dog.
- If you need to use a dog walking service or kennels, make sure you check references carefully to ensure the offer is genuine or the company is trusted.
SEARCHABLE
- Get your dog is microchipped and the details are correct on any of the recognised pet registration databases.
- Your dog must be microchipped by the time it is eight weeks old.Fit your dog with a collar; the tag on the collar should have a contact number and your surname, not the name of the dog.
- Take pictures of your dog from various angles, especially if they have distinctive markings or features. A further photo of you with your dog can help to prove ownership.
- What to do if your dog is stolen
If your dog is stolen contact Dorset Police and report the incident as soon as possible, giving as much description as you can. Also, contact Dorset council, make them aware as many still have fog warden services that encounter stray dogs.