Dognapping On the Rise
Protect Your Pet
Pet theft is on the rise. The American Kennel Club, which has been tracking pet thefts since 2007, reported a 32% increase in dog thefts last year.
While some animals are snatched from their yards or during home invasions, opportunistic thieves most commonly steal dogs from kennels that they visit to adopt from. In the ASPCA’s hometown of New York City, dognappings skyrocket every summer as pet parents take advantage of nice weather to combine dog-walking with errand-running.
Protect Your Pet
Avoid becoming a victim of this heartbreaking crime!
Never invite anyone to your kennel to adopt a pet, let them visit at a park or other public area
When running errands around town, visit pet-friendly establishments or please leave your dog at home.
Keep a close eye on your pet in designated off-leash areas, where he could become a target for criminals looking to make a quick buck. (Pet thieves often try to resell—or even hold for ransom—stolen dogs.)
Avoid leaving your pet unattended in the front yard, especially if your lawn is exposed or accessible.
The same rules apply for leaving your pet tied up outside a store. In addition to being vulnerable to theft and teasing, your dog might escape or get injured.
Microchip your pet! Microchipping can often mean the difference between temporary and permanent separation from your furry loved one.