Rise in Pet Theft Cases – How to Protect Yours

Contact us to report infringement

By Chloe Hart | News Alerts Column | The Pet Standard

It’s the stuff of nightmares for any pet owner: your beloved dog, cat, or bunny vanishing without a trace.

While we’re used to hearing about stolen phones or cars, pet theft has quietly crept up as a serious concern in the UK.

According to recent statistics, pet theft has increased by a staggering 50% in the past two years. With that in mind, let’s explore the rise of pet theft and how you can protect your furry friends before they become part of this troubling trend.

The Growing Problem of Pet Theft

A few years ago, the idea of a pet being stolen might have seemed far fetched. But today, it’s becoming an all too real threat. From high end breeds to rescue dogs, thieves are increasingly targeting pets for their potential resale value or to exploit them in illegal breeding operations.

The rise in demand for pets during the COVID 19 pandemic has only added fuel to the fire, with many people willing to pay eye watering sums for popular breeds.

A recent survey by Dogs Trust revealed that the number of reported stolen pets is on the up, with some areas in the UK experiencing a 70% rise in incidents. The RSPCA reports that some breeds, like French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Cavapoos, are particularly vulnerable, with prices ranging from £1,500 to £3,000.

For thieves, these pets are high value items that can be resold easily on unregulated platforms, making them prime targets.

But it’s not just the pedigree pups that are being stolen, beloved family pets of all types are falling victim. From the local tabby cat to that senior dog with a missing tooth, no pet is immune to the growing trend.

The Ways Thieves Strike

Pet thieves are becoming more brazen and inventive in their methods. Some are opportunistic, striking when a pet is left unattended in a garden or parked car. Others are more organised, using social media to track pets’ movements or even steal them from people’s homes.

In some cases, thieves have been known to pose as legitimate buyers to trick unsuspecting pet owners into handing over their animals.

1. Opportunistic theft: This is one of the most common types of pet theft. It happens when a pet is left unattended for even a brief moment. Whether it’s in the back of your car or in the garden while you’re popping inside, thieves know the risks are low, and the reward is high.

2. Social media scams: With many pet owners sharing their animals’ photos on Instagram and Facebook, some thieves have started using these platforms to scope out pets. This tactic is often paired with “fake” adoption ads, where the thief poses as a potential buyer and then disappears with the pet.

3. Home invasions: The more daring criminals are breaking into homes, especially in areas with a high demand for certain breeds. They steal pets from gardens or even from inside the house. While rare, this trend is growing, and it’s a chilling reminder that pet safety doesn’t stop at the front door.

How to Protect Your Pet

The good news is that there are plenty of proactive steps you can take to help protect your pet from this unsettling rise in thefts.

1. Keep Your Pet in View. It may seem like common sense, but never leave your pet unattended in public spaces, especially in cars, outside shops, or in gardens. If you need to pop inside somewhere briefly, take your pet with you. When out and about, always keep your dog on a lead, and be mindful of leaving them outside cafes or shops.

2. Microchipping. Microchipping is one of the most effective ways to ensure your pet can be traced back to you if stolen. It’s a simple, inexpensive procedure that costs as little as £15-£30. Most vets offer microchipping services, and it’s an absolute must for all pet owners. With the rise of stolen pets, having your animal microchipped makes them far easier to reunite with you should they go missing.

3. Secure Your Home and Garden. If you have a garden, invest in a secure fence (or even a pet proof one) to prevent opportunistic theft. Ensure there are no gaps or weaknesses where someone could slip through and grab your pet. For added security, consider installing CCTV cameras that cover your front and back gardens. With prices for outdoor security cameras starting at £50, it’s a worthwhile investment.

4. Social Media Caution. As tempting as it is to share cute photos of your pets online, be cautious about the information you share. Avoid posting real time updates or locations that might signal when your pet is alone. The more details you give away, the easier it is for thieves to plan a theft.

5. Register with Pet Theft Websites. There are now online platforms that help reunite stolen pets with their owners. The UK’s PetLog and The Dog Lost website are excellent places to register your pet’s details, so in case of theft, you have a better chance of finding them. You can also find useful advice on how to report a stolen pet and how to act quickly in the unfortunate event that it happens.

6. Insurance Protection. Consider taking out pet insurance that covers theft. Pet insurance prices vary depending on your pet’s breed and age, but for roughly £10-£20 per month, you can ensure your pet is covered against theft, loss, and injury.

Final Thoughts

Pet theft is a real and growing problem in the UK, but with a few proactive steps, you can reduce the risk and protect your furry friend from becoming another statistic. A little prevention goes a long way whether it’s microchipping, securing your home, or simply keeping an eye on your pet, staying vigilant is key.

In a world where our pets are more than just animals, they’re family, it’s crucial that we do all we can to protect them. So, the next time you let your dog off the lead or take that cute selfie with your cat, remember: safety first, Instagram second!

Stay safe, stay secure, and keep your pets close