Theft of cats and dogs will be classified as a criminal offence as of August 2024 in England and Northern Ireland, which is already similar in Scotland, in line with rising concerns about pet theft and its effects on both owners and pets. This modification seeks to protect pets better and emphasizes their value as members of the family.
The new law recognizes pet theft as a severe offence, acknowledging the psychological suffering and practical challenges it causes. It is a component of larger initiatives to improve animal care and prevent pets from being taken for unlawful use, breeding, or other reasons. Anyone found stealing pets may be prosecuted for the crime and may be subject to jail time, fines, or both. Offender compensation for the loss and any related expenses may be mandated by the courts to the victims.
Pet theft
Pet thefts come in a variety of forms, such as opportunistic theft, in which a person takes advantage of the opportunity to steal a pet left unattended in a public location or another easily accessible area. Breeds that have significant value or are specifically targeted for theft are frequently exploited for illegal activities like breeding and resale.
Theft of pets has also been exploited as a means of obtaining financial benefit; stolen animals, especially those of rare or popular breeds, can be sold for a profit. In order to ensure the pet's safe return, thieves may even demand a ransom from the owner. Unbelievably, there are situations where someone knows the owner and takes their pets because of arguments or other personal reasons.
Prevent measures
Vigilance, safety precautions, and community awareness are all necessary to prevent pet theft.
Make sure your pet has a microchip, and that the microchip registry has the most recent version of your contact information. Wear an ID tag on your pet's collar that has your current contact information and the name of your pet on it. Think about attaching a GPS tracker to their collar, as that will help to find your pet faster if your pet goes lost. Install security cameras throughout your home to keep away thieves and record any dubious activity.
Check that the fencing in your yard is sturdy and difficult to climb over and that it does not have any gaps or weak areas on a regular basis. To prevent unwanted access, keep gates closed and think about utilizing padlocks. Pets should never be left unsupervised in your yard for extended periods of time, particularly if it is visible from the street and they should always be kept inside, especially when you are away from home. Make sure every window and door is shut firmly and locked.
When walking your pet, wear a leash, and never leave them alone in public—that includes outside of stores and in parked cars. Your pet should be trained to respond to calls. They won't stray too far from you if you do this. Reduce fear and lessen the likelihood that your pet will escape in strange circumstances by socializing them.
Participate in or establish a neighbourhood community, and report any suspicious activity or strangers loitering in your neighbourhood or on your property.
How to respond to pet theft
Recovering your pet securely can be greatly increased by taking swift action once they have been stolen.
Stay calm and check the area of your house and the pet's last known location right away. Note all the details surrounding the theft, including the date, time, and description of any suspicious people or cars. Make a report to the police department in the area you live in and give them all the information they need, including up-to-date pictures of your pet and their microchip number. Inform the local shelters, animal control departments, and rescue groups; give them a thorough description of your pet along with pictures.
Notify the microchip provider of the theft of your pet and check if your contact details are current. Post information about your pet, images of them, and the circumstances surrounding their theft on social media sites such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter and ask that your family and friends share the post. Post on local lost and found pet groups. Notify your neighbours of the theft and find out whether they heard or observed anything out of the ordinary. Keep an eye out for any advertisements that appear to be your pet on pet classifieds advert websites.
Don't give up too early and keep looking for your pet; sometimes, they might be located weeks or even months after being taken. Any time you receive new information or make changes to your contact details, make sure to update your social media postings and web ads. To be informed of any updates, maintain regular contact with animal control, the police, and shelters. Seek legal counsel to discuss possible legal proceedings if you have evidence that someone is taking your pet.
Conclusion
The law of pet theft as a crime in August 2024 will be an important step towards animal protection laws. It seeks to give stolen pets greater protection and justice while also acknowledging the strong link that exists between pets and their owners.
Pet theft is a terrible crime that has a profound impact on both the animals and their owners. Pet owners can strengthen the security of their cherished companions by being aware of the risks, taking preventative action, and knowing what to do if a pet is taken. Addressing this issue and guaranteeing the safety and well-being of pets requires both community actions and legislative improvements.
By being proactive, you may lower the possibility that your pet will be stolen and raise the likelihood that they will return safely if they go missing.
