Police now using doggy DNA to help stop thefts
Two forces have signed up the DNA database
Last updated 30th Nov 2021
In an effort to help combat dog thefts across the country, two police forces are taking part in a dog DNA scheme that should make it easier to reunite stolen pets and their owners.
Cellmark Forensic Services launched 'DNA Protected' as a way of creating a database of people's dogs by using their DNA, as microchips can be taken out or changed.
This mean it is more reliable, and should be more effective for tracking.
Wiltshire Police have become just the second force in the country to sign up, following Gloucestershire earlier this year.
Pet thefts are on the rise
As pet thefts have been on the rise nationally, the Government set out a new criminal offence in its Kept Animals Bill.
It aims to crack down on the issue and put people who steal pets behind bars for up to five years.
Inspector Gill Hughes, said: "Nationally, there have been much higher levels of dog thefts over the past 18 months, especially as prices for puppies climbed due to soaring demand during the periods of lockdown.
"I would encourage dog owners, especially those with high-value pedigree dogs, to consider buying a DNA test kit and registering their dogs on the national register.
"It will make it harder for thieves to sell your pet and easier for us to return a dog to its rightful owner should it be stolen or even lost."
Though Mr Hughes said that Wiltshire and Swindon have not experienced high levels of dog theft like other counties.
How does it work?
Cellmark Forensic Services provide kits, but they are not free - they cost ÂŁ74.99.
You then swab the inside of your dogs mouth, which provides cheek cells from your pets.
Once the DNA is transferred onto the kit it can be registered by Cellmark into a database, which will link you with your pet.
This means that if a dog is found after being stolen or lost, it's owner can be tracked no matter where the animal has been found.
David Hartshorne, Managing Director of Cellmark Forensic Services, explained: "The Forensic Dog DNA Database gives dog owners access to powerful DNA technology so that if the worst were to happen, it could be used to help the police identify and return a lost or stolen dog to its owner."
You can find more information on their 'DNA Protected' website.
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