Stolen Dogs and Cats: A Rising Trend

by Dr. Chris

September 14, 2009 Back in April 2009, the American Kennel Club (AKC) notified pet owners about the growing trend of stolen dogs and even appeared on the NBC’s Today Show to offer tips to keep your pets safe.

AKC had tracked 30 pet thefts from the news already, versus only 10 for all of 2007. The types of incidents have varied, from armed robberies of dog breeders to puppies that are sneaked out of pet stores in purses. Some people have even stolen pets right of children’s arms.

The reason people steel pets can vary, must the majority are mostly financial reasons, while others just want to keep the dogs for themselves.

The AKC offers these tips to keep your pets safe:

>Don’t let your dog off the leash

>Don’t leave your dog unattended in the yard

>Don’t offer detailed information to strangers who ask how much you paid for your dog or if it’s a purebred

>Breeders should be cautious about home visits by puppy buyers

>Never leave your dog unattended in a car

>Don’t tie your dog outside unattended

>Be extra careful when you are around animal businesses, like groomers and vet clinics.

>Micro-chip your dog

>Keep a recent photo of your pet

Many people who have had a stolen dog thought it could not happen to them, but it did. Take some steps right now to keep your dog and cat safer.

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