Sadly, all too often we hear of pedigree and crossbreed dogs being stolen; for breeding, for hunting, for selling on to unsuspecting members of the public, held for ransom and worst of all, for use by dog fighting rings. It is estimated that up to 50,000 dogs may be stolen in the UK every year. It can be very difficult to get your dog back if he or she is stolen, so prevention is definitely better than cure.

Here are a few steps you can take to help ensure your dog’s safety:

• Have your dog microchipped. Dogs Trust offers reduced price microchipping, please contact us for more information. Alternatively (or additionally), get your dog ear-tattooed.
• Make sure your dog has a collar and tag with your name and address on it. This is a legal requirement anyway. Also include contact telephone numbers.
• If your dog has been neutered (which may put off certain types of thieves – especially if your dog is a pure-breed or pedigree) have a tag made which states this. You may also want to state if your dog is microchipped.
• Never tie your dog up outside a shop and leave him – this is one of the easiest places for your dog to be stolen from.
• Never leave your dog alone in a parked car for the same reason as above. Remember also that dogs can die in hot cars very easily.
• Beware of strangers taking too much of an interest in your dog.
• Don’t let your dog go out of your sight on walks. Consider using an extending lead, do some extra recall training, or actively play and interact with your dog on walks if he is likely to wander too far away. Vary your walk routes and times.
• Make sure your garden fencing is secure and high enough.
• Keep your dog in view when in the garden. Avoid leaving your dog in your garden when you’re not there.
• If the public have easy access to your garden via a gate, consider adding a warning system, such as a cowbell, to let you know when trespassers enter. 
• Keep clear, up-to-date photographs of your dog; from different angles, head and full body shots. Make a list of any unusual or distinguishing marks.

If the unthinkable happens and your dog is stolen, report this to the police and then contact your local dog warden. There are also groups such as Doglost www.doglost.co.uk and Petsearch UK www.petsearchuk.org.uk that can also help you trace your pet, and if your dog has pet insurance, your policy may cover the expenses of looking for your pet.

ENDS

Notes to Editor:
For further information please contact:
Jennifer Blaber  Head of PR Tel: 020 7833 7650  Email: jennifer.blaber@dogstrust.org.uk