Pet theft has increased exponentially ever since the pandemic hit the UK, but why is this and what can we do to keep our four legged friends safe?
Google searches of ‘buy a puppy’ rose 166% from March to August 2020. Supply and demand has meant breeders have found themselves cashing in on up to 89% more than in pre-covid times and criminals have capitalised on this.
Why the increase?
The UK charity, DogLost, reported a 170% increase in pet theft from 2019 to 2020. Sources explain one of the main reasons for this shift is the rise in ownership. Over the lockdowns, people had a lot more time on their hands and spent an increased time at home. Increased isolation meant that owning a pet became more appealing and a lot more feasible for the everyday family.
Alongside this, there has been an influx of social media sharing of ‘Instagram-friendly’ breeds such as French Bulldogs, Labradoodles and Cockapoos. Online users have been exposed to the highlights of life with a furry friend and this content has been enough to encourage many to add an addition to their family.
Rachel Fletcher, Partner and Head of our Crime and Regulatory team, explains that these new breeds are a sign of status which means “certain breeds have become very popular amongst pet-nappers”.
The law on pet theft
At the present moment, pet theft is not currently a specific offence as it comes under theft of property in the Theft Act 1968. Being categorised under this offence means stealing a pet is essentially deemed no more serious than stealing someone’s garden chair.
Convictions of this offence can lead to a maximum of 7 years in prison, but in the majority of cases, criminals get off much lighter.
The Pet Theft Reform campaign found only 1% of dog thefts led to prosecution.
Campaigners have called on the government to make changes, with over 100 million signatures given on a tougher sentencing petition. They are now exploring this with a report being finalised to make pet theft a specific offence.
Prevention
Whilst more is yet to be done by the police and in the law, it is important to have some preventative measures in place to keep your pet safe.
- Mix up your walking routes. Adding variation to your walks will make it harder for thieves to track your pet’s whereabouts.
- Microchip! Whilst microchipping cannot stop your pet from being stolen, it does make life easier for rehoming organisations. If your dog was to be taken, the organisation involved would scan the microchip and could then access your contact details.
- Avoid posting photos on social media. It may be tempting to show off your new pet to your friends and family online, however not everyone on social media has good intentions. Thieves can use it as a platform to find their next victim. Send photos as direct messages to people you trust, or wait to show off your furry friend in person.
- Lock doors, windows and garden gates. It may seem obvious but in the summer months, it can be very tempting to leave doors and windows open. It is important to keep your property safe and secure, especially when your pet is left home alone.
Rachel Fletcher explains that transitioning out of lockdown means pets are spending more time at home, potentially without their owners as they return to work. “Criminals always exploit such opportunities, with accounts for the predicted increase in thefts.”
Speak with a Solicitor
If you believe your pet has been stolen, you should report it to the police as soon as possible and inform the microchip database. It is also a good idea to put posters up in your local area, spread the word on social media and register on missing pet websites such as DogLost, Petslocated and National Pets Register.
Contrastingly, if you have been unfairly accused of pet theft and require legal support, our crime team can advise. Call them on 0161 969 3131 or fill in our contact form and one of the team will be in touch.