Dognapping fear at all time high
A recent survey, conducted by Sussex's Police and Crime Commissioner, was answered by nearly 125,000 people
More than three-quarters of dog owners say they're more scared of walking their pet because of the risk it'll be stolen, according to a major new study conducted by our county's Police and Crime Commissioner.
124,729 people in total responded to the online survey with the majority saying that dog theft is a "serious problem" and thieves should face tougher sentences.
Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne conducted the survey alongside the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners.
"Police forces need to communicate better with the public on this issue"
It comes following growing evidence that dogs are being targeted more by criminals.
DogLost, a UK charity supporting victims of dog theft, recorded a 170% increase in the crime between 2019 and 2020 with 465 dogs being reported stolen last year.
Key findings from the survey include:
97% said that dog theft is a serious problem
22% 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
83% have grown more fearful of taking their dog for a walk at night
Survey answers also showed support for a potential law change to reflect the emotional impact of having a pet stolen.
Currently, dog theft isn't defined as a specific crime as dogs are classed as property.
The penalty for stealing pets is generally a small fine or suspended sentence.
The aim of the survey is to shape polices response to dog theft and could also now change how the crime is defined.
About a third of the respondents said they want their local police force to take dog theft more seriously.
Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne said: “Police forces across the country need a ‘flag’ for reports of dog theft on their systems as currently it is extremely difficult to track this crime trend and put in place an appropriate police response
“I will be speaking with my Chief Constable about how we can use this data to inform future enforcement and preventative measures that we put in place.”
“I would like to thank everybody who took part in this unique survey which elicited such a huge public response. Pets are part of people’s family and the devastating emotional impact of this crime should no longer be overlooked.
“There is a clear message that police forces need to communicate better with the public on this issue. Public perception and fear have increased massively, so much so that nearly 83% of respondents are scared of walking their dogs at night.
“The Home Office have asked to discuss the findings and how we can develop measures that will protect people’s pets and boost public confidence. I will be exploring whether it is time to consider defining pet theft as a specific crime.”