Dog theft fears rise after pets are taken
FEARS of dog theft have been raised by Macclesfield owners as rumours of attempts to steal pets in the town spread.
Two black Labradors were taken from outside a shop in Nantwich on Saturday evening and reports that those responsible were also seen in a van looking for dogs in Macclesfield have been circulating.
But police say that there have been no confirmed reports of dogs being stolen in the town, although they have urged owners to be vigilant.
Superintendent Bill Dutton, from Cheshire Police, said: “The issue of dog thefts is understandably highly emotive as they are part of the family.
“We have been monitoring figures to see if this is a real issue for Cheshire.
“While we saw a rise in dog thefts in 2020 to 15, compared to 11 in 2019, it remains relatively low, although this is not of much comfort for those whose dogs are still missing.
“So far in 2021 we have had four dogs reported stolen.”
Happily the Labradors stolen in Nantwich were recovered and three people were arrested. As we went to press they were being questioned.
Police have said that while there has been ‘scaremongering’ on social media owners are right to remain watchful.
Officers urge people not to walk dogs in secluded areas, to always carry a fully-charged mobile, never leave their pet unattended and to ensure that their social media privacy settings are used.
One reported scam is for thieves to pose as RSPCA officers and claim to an owner that their dog matches the description of one stolen so needs to be taken into their van.
Nationally dog theft has increased over the last year as demand for them has increased during lockdown.
Supt Dutton said: “We will continue to monitor these statistics in order to build up a final picture so that we can inform the public and make them aware if there is an specific issue in Cheshire.
“In the meantime, I’d always urge you ensure your gardens are secure, and you don’t leave your dog’s outside shops or alone in a car to prevent opportunists taking advantage of their vulnerability.”