Norfolk dog trainer welcomes plans to make pet abduction a criminal offence
Under the Pet Abduction Bill, anyone found guilty of stealing a pet will face up to five years in prison, a fine, or both
A dog trainer in Norfolk is welcoming new legislation which would make the abduction of a somebody's pet a criminal offence.
The bill that was introduced by Essex MP Anna Firth in December 2023, is being debated in Parliament today, and could soon become law.
Evidence from the Pet Theft Taskforce suggests that around 2,000 dog theft and over 400 cat theft crimes were reported to police in 2020.
Under the Pet Abduction Bill, anyone found guilty of stealing a pet will face up to five years in prison, a fine, or both.
"Pets are micro-chipped and fully insured"
Damion Vincent is from 'Fetch Dog Walking and Training', who are based near Norwich:
"I think it's really important that local councils promote this really heavily, so everyone is aware of it.
"It's really important that pet owners make sure their pets are micro-chipped and fully insured. Additionally, it's key that all the relevant details are on the name tag, as well.
"Also if you have your dog off-lead, make sure that you can call them back at any time. Otherwise, if they see somebody in the distance they could run over to them instead."
"Should act as a deterrent"
Environment Secretary Steve Barclay said:
“As a dog owner myself, I appreciate deeply what treasured members of the family dogs and cats are. It is a deeply traumatic experience for both the owner and the pet when they are stolen.
“This vital Bill will recognise the severity of this shocking crime and should act as a deterrent to anyone considering stealing a dog or cat. We will do all we can to support its swift passage through Parliament.”
"Pets are not merely property"
Anna Firth MP said:
“I am absolutely delighted that the Pet Abduction Bill has passed its second reading, and will move on to Committee stage. As a nation of pet-lovers, it is vital that the law recognises the emotional impact that the abduction of a pet can have, and brings the perpetrators to justice that correctly reflects this.
“Pets are not merely property like a smartphone or watch – they are part of the family. It is not right that the law does not distinguish this and I am delighted that my bill will redress this wrong.”
What happens now?
The Bill is due to have its report stage and third reading on Friday 19 April.
Amendments can be made to the Bill at Report Stage. Amendments to be considered are selected by the Speaker.