We need to stop dog theft and all reasons why dogs are stolen in the UK. Providing stronger deterrents such as tougher sentencing for those involved, regular micro-chip scanning at vets, tracking chips, compulsory dog tattooing, and increased police support in finding those responsible will help stop the criminal inhumane individuals repsonsible. The protection and security of dogs in the UK should be taken seriously.

Every day in the UK a number of dogs are stolen for 3 main reasons; breeding farms, stolen ‘to-order’, and used as bait in dog fighting. Many dogs are stolen from the “safety of their own homes, gardens, and becoming more and more popular amongst dog thieves, is steeling dogs from their owners whilst out walking. Dog owners shouldn’t have to live in fear of their dog being taken from their loving families and homes. The protection of dogs is just as important as the protection of children, adults and elderly people.

Organisations such as Dog Theft Action (DTA - http://www.dogtheftaction.com/) have been working since 2005 to push for law changes in dog theft, and even though progress has been made, no such law is set in place for full protection of dogs and punishment for those criminals involved.

Social Media is a huge driver when pushing the awareness of dog theft to the public, with certain pages and profiles set up in order for people to share images and descriptions of their missing/stolen dogs.