It is now unfortunately very apparent that dog theft and pet crime in society has been thriving ever since the UK lockdown: this being one of the most devastating effects of it. Pets are a huge part of the family home and it’s barbaric that at most, those who commit such crimes often end up with a fine and little to no jail time.

Fraudsters and scammers have been finding extremely efficient ways in luring people in with fake ‘adoption/rehoming’ posts via Facebook and Instagram and have been sharing them to a number of established dog pages for publicity which in turn has resulted into many falling victim to these scams.

Dog theft is not a particular offence and the crime of theft carries a sentence of up to seven years according to the Theft Act 1968 and this doesn’t target our issue. Dog theft needs tougher and stricter punishments. 

Over 2000 dogs are stolen each year on average with less than 5% resulting into a conviction and a heartbreaking 22% are only ever reunited with their owners. 

The Kennel Club reported a 168% increase on people searching puppies for sale which has made lockdown the prime time for thieves as so many of us have yearned for a furry companion. 

Having said this, fined penalties are no way enough to justify the trauma that families are left suffering and it’s paramount that we have a tougher justice system regarding dog theft. It’s not at all ‘misdemeanour’ it is a crime ! That is infact very calculated and we need to treat it like one! Lets make dog theft an offence! Once and for all!!