Police Warn: Protect Your Pooch as Pet Theft Rises
Nottinghamshire Police are stepping up to protect your furry friends. With pet theft awareness week kicking off on March 13th, officers are urging dog owners to lock down their pets’ safety.
Top Tips to Keep Your Dog Safe
- Never leave your dog alone, even for a quick shop run.
- Secure your garden – add trellis to low fences to stop climbing thieves.
- Keep gates locked and kennels out of public view.
- Always use a collar with an ID tag showing your name and contact number – but never your dog’s name.
- Avoid signs that advertise your pet’s presence, like “dogs at home” notices.
- Remember: microchipping your dog is the law.
New Laws Hit Dog Thieves Hard
Thanks to fresh government laws, anyone caught stealing a dog can face up to five years behind bars. It’s a headline crackdown aimed at pet bandits.
Police Officer Pleads With Owners
Tom Ford, Nottinghamshire Police Crime Prevention Officer and proud dog dad, said:
“As the owner of two dogs, I get how terrifying it is to think about them being stolen. Dogs are family – friends to kids, companions to the elderly. The heartbreak is real.
“Posting cute puppy pics on social media is great, but don’t give away your home address! That’s just handing tips to thieves looking to nab your beloved pet.”
Ford urges anyone suspecting theft to call 101 or 999 in emergencies and follow the safety tips to keep their dogs protected.
