Fears of pet crime on rise

Posted : 26-07-2005

New research of dog owners in Britain suggests that awareness of pet crime is at an all time high.

The survey, by Direct Line Pet Insurance, shows that more than a third of dog owners are concerned that their dog may be snatched, and one in 20 pet owners who have lost a pet believe that it was stolen.

As a result, just under half of those surveyed have fitted their dog with a microchip to track their movements.

Almost a quarter of owners said they did not let their dog off the lead for fear of it being snatched and 13 per cent avoided venturing out with their pets after dark.

Retrieving a lost pet can be very expensive, but the research suggests that overwhelmingly, dog owners would be devastated to loose their pet and would not make money an object when trying to get it returned.

Some insurance companies offer money to help owners money to help them track down their pets and to go towards a cash reward incentive, when they are reported missing to the police.

Dog owners are prepared to offer an average reward of over £450 to get their stolen dog back, with Londoners willing to pay up to £714 for their dog's return.

One in 20 pet owners say they would hire a private detective to hunt for their favourite pet.

Chris Price, business manager at Direct Line Pet Insurance, said: 'There have been a few cases of dognapping reported recently and this type of crime appears to be on the increase.

"In the event of a suspected theft pet owners should contact the police immediately and alert their insurance company. They may be eligible for money to help them track down their pets and to go towards a cash reward."

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