Lockdown dog thefts warning

Pet owners are being warned to beware of organised gangs turning to dog theft because of a rise in demand for puppies during lockdown.

The National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC), said theincreaseinpotentialprofits had made the illegal trade more attractive to lawbreakers – and charity DogLost says reported dog thefts have risen from 172 in 2019 to 465 in 2020.

Dep Chief Constable Amanda Blakeman, the NPCC lead for acquisitive crime, said: "Dog theft causes considerable distress to owners and, whilst it is still a very rare crime, it's sadly something we have seen increasing recently.

"During the coronavirus pandemic, criminals have adjusted their activities and are taking advantage of the big demand for pets during lockdown periods.”