02

Jun
2015

Protect Your Pet from Theft

June 2nd, 2015 | by admin admin | in Security Advice |    0   

Another stolen pet makes the evening news as a distraught owner appeals for its return, “It’s like losing my child!” Since police do not distinguish pet theft from other property crimes, and many thefts go unreported, there are no reliable statistics available. However, some advocates claim up to two million pets are stolen every year. The American Kennel Club, meanwhile, tracked more than 590 reported pet thefts in the U.S. in 2013, a 33% increase over the year before.

Sometimes, thieves steal pets for ransom or resale. Stolen dogs are also sold to research laboratories or used as fighters or bait in dog fighting. So what can you do to prevent dognapping?

1. Microchip your pet, and keep your information up-to-date. Collars and licences can be easily removed, but microchip IDs are embedded under the skin.

2. Keep your pup on a leash. It only takes seconds for a thief to pick up a loose dog.

3. Don’t leave your dog unattended in your yard, outside a shop or in your car. On a warm day, a pet can get heat stroke or die in a locked car. If you leave the windows down, crooks may steal your valuables, including your pet, or the vehicle itself.

4. Don’t share information with strangers about how much your pet cost or where you live.

5. Keep a current photo and description of your pet on hand in case of theft.

If your pet goes missing, immediately put up posters in the neighbourhood and at local shelters. Talk to your neighbours. If you suspect theft, contact the police right away and let news media know. Expand your search as needed. Dogs have been found 100 miles away within three days.

More information:

Protect Your Pet from Theft. American Kennel Club.

Prevent Pet Theft. Petfinder.

Note: This blog discusses general safety and security topics. It is not intended to provide comprehensive advice or guidance. In all matters of personal safety and security, we encourage readers to research topics in depth and consult a security professional about specific concerns.

Radius Security Vancouver, West Vancouver, North Vancouver, Burnaby, New Westminster, Richmond, Surrey, Langley, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Ladner, Delta, Tsawwassen