Police issue 'pooch security' advice in light of dog thefts in South Yorkshire

After a series of dog thefts across South Yorkshire, police have issued advice on keeping pets safe.
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Just last week a Springer Spaniel named Lily was stolen from her owner’s car in Sheffield, leaving her owners devastated.

Luckily, the beloved family pooch was reunited with her family in time for New Year- but other owners aren’t so lucky.

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Philip Whitaker, PCSO for Sheffield West, said: “Although not that common, dogs do get stolen. There are a number of reasons why dog are stolen.

Keep your pooch safe following the advice from officers below.Keep your pooch safe following the advice from officers below.
Keep your pooch safe following the advice from officers below.

“The main ones are the high values attached to ‘designer dogs’, a lack of awareness of the dangers of leaving your dog unattended and lenient prison sentences for those convicted of the crime.

“The two most common reasons for stealing a dog are to sell it on are for breeding or resale.

“Some buyers don’t check the history of their future pets, making it easier for stolen dogs to be sold for a profit.

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“More prestige dogs will be at risk of this. Puppy mills, or puppy farms, are used for multiple breeding and often animals are kept in poor and overcrowded conditions, which often lead to health issues further down the line.

South Yorkshire Police Designing out Crime Officer Dene Tinker offers the following advice:

• Not a lot of people know that it is a legal requirement for your dog to wear a collar and ID tag. This applies even if your dog is chipped. • Ensure your garden is secure and don’t leave dogs alone for long periods of time. Gardens where dogs are visible from the street pose a higher risk of theft.• Consider fitting home CCTV. • If you keep dos outside, make sure your property and kennels are secure.• Keep all documentation relating to your dog(s) in a safe place. Include clear photos of front and side profiles of your dog. Make a note of unusual markings.Report dog thefts to the police on 101, your Local Authority’s Dog Warden service, local vets and rescue centres.

If your dog is microchipped, report it to the microchip company and report the theft.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.