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Recent reports of an increase in dog theft are chilling. The pandemic has made many people aware of the joys of canine companionship, and sadly thieves eager to cash in are stealing beloved pets to resell. But you can take some simple steps to help protect your best friend.

• Keep your dog inside the house or in a secure garden. Repair any gates or low fences where your dog might escape. Keeping your dog indoors most of the time reduces the opportunity for thieves.
• Check your privacy setting on social media. Don’t make public posts about your pets or mention them on public posts. Be sure it is not possible to locate your home from information you’ve shared on social media.
• Vary your walking route. Dogs love routine so changing the time you walk is harder, but they love a change of scenery. If thieves are watching for a chance to grab your dog, it is best to have an unpredictable walking route.
• There have been reports of thieves cutting dogs’ leads and grabbing them while their owners are walking them. It is safest to use a shorter lead that can’t be easily cut.
• Walk with friends. There is safety in numbers, and it is great chance to develop your dog’s social skills.
• Be aware of your surroundings. Don’t listen to music or talk on the phone when walking your dog. Keep a good distance from parked cars, especially vans, and be wary of strangers approaching your dog.
• Microchip your dog and make sure the microchip company has your current contact details.  Put your phone number on their collar.
• Spaying or neutering your pet not only decreases the odds of them roaming, it makes them less valuable to thieves because they cannot be bred.

Hopefully this will soon pass. Making it as difficult as possible to steal and sell dogs will discourage dog theft and protect our pets. Be safe everyone!