Shock figures reveals pets snatched from their homes as dog thefts rise

Dog theft is on the rise for the fourth year in a row, according to new figures obtained by Blue Cross.

Data gathered from UK police forces reveals that dog theft crimes rose by a third in 2015 compared to 2014.

Shockingly, over 70 per cent of dogs were stolen from where they live, with almost half being pinched from within the home itself.

Tricia Scott’s poodle cross Sherbert was taken from her garden in Newport on 15 October. She said: “I can honestly say it's like I have lost a child. My boys are distraught! The only thing that has kept us going has been the support from people. It is getting harder as the weeks are going on not knowing if he is being cared for and is happy.”

Linsey Thomas’s French bulldog puppy Betty was also stolen from the garden. Linsey said: “Betty was stolen just before my daughter Daisy’s seventh birthday. She has been the most affected by this and refused to have a party or any birthday presents as she just wanted her puppy back. It’s been tough for us all but Daisy is devastated.”

Over half of pet owners believe thieves target homes to steal the family pet. Dog breeds stolen over the last two years have included small, fashionable breeds like French bulldogs, pugs, shih-tzus and Chihuahuas.

Most owners believe they are sold on for cash or used for breeding while others believe they are being used as bait by gangs for illegal dog fighting or for reward or ransom. Sixty-nine per cent of owners think criminals who steal pets should face harsher penalties than those who steal property such as a laptop of mobile phone.

For advice on protecting your pet from theft, or to read about our free and confidential pet loss helpline, visit our pet theft campaign page.