Pooch owners beware

Atlas the dog is home safe and sound. It was the happy ending we were all hoping for.

Last week, an 18-month-old golden retriever was snatched from a fenced year at his home in the 2400 block of Taylor Crescent, not far from Kelowna General Hospital.

Thanks to the wonders of social and traditional media — combined with an offer for a $5,000 reward and good police work — word spread quickly.

The culprit is still at large, but the wonderful news is Atlas and his owner were reunited Wednesday afternoon. The dog appears to be unharmed.

This should be a red flag to all pet owners. As people get desperate, they become more creative.

There’s a problem in the U.S. where dognappers steal a dog, often from a senior, then post the dog for sale online at an inflated price.

When the original owner spots this online and fears never seeing their beloved pet again, they buy it back.

Pet owners might not understand the significance, but for them it’s not like having a gas barbecue or lawn ornaments stolen. You can always replace those.

A dog is a family member, especially for childless couples, the lonely and downtrodden.

The $5,000 reward offered by Atlas’s owner shows how much he was loved.

The lesson to be learned is to not let your dog out for a pee unsupervised.

Thanks to the RCMP and pet owners everywhere for taking this seriously.

To the culprit who remains at large — shame on you. You’re in our doghouse.