Cases of ‘dognapping’ are on the rise as people steal dogs to either sell them on for profit or to hold for ransom. Just this month Lady Gaga’s dogs were stolen at gunpoint with her dog walker being seriously injured.

Dog theft has risen by over 180% during lockdown as demand has grown.  This includes theft from cars, back gardens and occasionally violent theft where dogs are taken directly from their owners.

The Law still treats dog theft in the same way as if your mobile phone were stolen. However, excellent work is being done to raise awareness and DogLost had a Zoom call with Boris Johnson this month.  I’m hoping that action is finally taken to move ahead with Pet Theft Reform.

Dogs are being stolen all over the country so here are some tips to protect your dog:

Do not leave your dog in the car or tied up outside a shop as your dog may become a target for an opportunist thief.

Take clear photos of you with your dog from all angles in case you ever need to prove ownership. Ensure your dog is microchipped with your current address and always wears a collar and ID tag.

Consider how easy it would be to get into your garden. Keep your dog in view at all times; one of my client’s dogs was taken this way recently.

Be careful about posting your lovely dog on social media, think about who may see the photos.

Vary your times of walks and routes and beware of strangers asking questions about your dog. Criminals have been posing as RSPCA officials – do not hand your dog over to anyone. Walk with a friend if you can.

Make sure your dog has a really solid Recall and comes back to you no matter the distraction. If you need help with this contact me or a good trainer for one to one sessions. Alternatively I have an easy to follow self help Recall Training Programme in my Shop for £9.99.

Invest in a product called Safehaus, it is a dye which can be sprayed up to 4m and lasts for days on clothing and/or your dog. It is safe to use and legal in the UK. It can help the police identify the criminals and/or your dog. You can purchase it on Amazon.

If your dog is stolen is it important to act swiftly. Report it to the police and insist it is logged as a theft with a crime number and not a lost dog. Get the word out on social media and particularly on missing dog websites.

Put up posters in local parks, vet surgeries and animal rescue centres – you never know who may see your dog. Let dog wardens know and report it to your microchip company. The faster you act the more likely you are to get your dog home.

It’s good to know that the Police are saying cases are dog napping are still relatively rare so its important not to panic. The chances are small that this will happen to you but let’s do all we can to protect our precious pets.