Cheltenham Animal Shelter supporting tougher punishment on pet thefts
MPs are currently discussing legislation which would see tougher punishment on pet abduction.
Under the Pet Abduction Bill, a Private Members Bill sponsored by MP Anna Firth, anyone found guilty of stealing a pet could face a fine or up to five years in prison.
By supporting the Pet Abduction Bill the Government is delivering on pledges it made in its Action Plan for Animal Welfare.
If introduced, it would recognise cats and dogs are capable of experiencing emotional distress when they are stolen from their owners. In current law, they are viewed as property.
Nicky Spanswick, from Cheltenham Animal Shelter, said: "Currently pet theft is seen under the 1986 Theft Act, which sees pets as property. Whereas under this new law we would be recognising that pets are part of the family.
"It's a very traumatic time for anybody if they lose a pet. I think it would bring some comfort to owners knowing that the legislation will be harsher."
It is also hoped if the Bill is passed it would act as a deterrent to potential offenders.