It is. I got a general letter from our vets, recently, about dog theft. They say that as microchips are sometimes cut out, keep some hair of each dog or cat you have, in a sealed bag. So they can check for dna.
This is horrendous and seems to be getting worse. I've not heard of keeping hair for DNA but it seems like a good idea. I read of several dogs stolen together, one found wandering with a wound in her neck. Her microchip was still there so presumably they couldn't get it out and abandoned her. There is a petition about asking to make dog stealing more of a crime. At the moment it's regarded the same level as mobile phones and purses.
I used to tie my dog up outside the shop and go and do my shopping. I never considered that a person would want to steal him. It really is a crazy world.
A dog is worth much more than its monetary value. They are family members and they should be seen as such by the law.
Getting attacked for your dog or for someone to be watching your home and then stealing your dog must be horrendous.
I heard that someone stole a Rottweiler - that is brave, they are not known to be vicious but at that size and power I wouldn't try to steal one.
I agree, wolf. It should be treated much more seriously than it seems to be. I got a "self-defence" spray from Amazon, purely just in case. It covers them in paint, to identify them as well.
Good idea, Pixie. I was only thinking this the other day. Dog owners should be allowed to carry some sort of spray with them, to help defend themselves. Pepper spray?
I did wonder that... shame. Also, maybe owners should invest in one of those tiny spy cameras. Shouldn't have to, but desperate times calls for desperate measures.
Pixie I've just ordered some of that spray stuff yesterday after realising pepper spray is illegal in the UK. I've also ordered some personal alarms that fit on your key ring. Even where we are, we have had a lot of dog thefts and I am genuinely frightened that if I go out alone with Puppy she could be stolen. I've also got an air pistol and know how to use it -not joking either, if some huge gypo comes lunging after me for my dog he'll lose a knee-cap. Thieving scum I hope some more people from AB will sign the online petition I put up yesterday if you haven't already done so.