HOW TO KEEP YOUR DOG SAFE

DO: Take plenty of clear photos of your pet, including any distinctive markings.

DO: Ensure your pet is microchipped and registered with up-to-date information – and take note of the microchip number.

DO: Pay attention to your surroundings and know where your dog is at all times when out walking. If someone is following or watching you and your dog in a way that makes you feel uncomfortable, call the police.

DO: Ensure gardens, yards or dog paddocks are secure so no one can gain entry and a dog cannot squeeze through any fences or hedges.

DON’T: Leave your dog unattended in the garden, the car or outside shops, if you can help it.

DON’T: Post pictures of your pet on public social media pages, and review your social media security settings. Be careful with sharing details about your location or favourite walking spots.

DON’T: Boast about your dog in the pub or in public – you never know who’s listening.

IF YOUR DOGS LIVE IN KENNELS

DO: Make it as hard as possible for someone to break in. Use multiple locks and have CCTV cameras covering the kennel as a deterrent – ideally, use alarmed padlocks or infra-red sensors.

DO: Install panic alarms where you can – particularly ones that can be controlled remotely. Remember, CCTV might help you to identify culprits but a loud noise is more likely to scare them off or minimise the time spent on your property.

DO: Try to ensure any vehicular access to the kennels is secured/ gated, so vehicles can’t drive up to or into buildings.

DO: Build your kennel as close as possible to your home.