An average of four dogs were stolen daily across the UK last year, totaling about 25,000 reported thefts over 11 years. Police figures show popular breeds such as French bulldogs, Staffordshire bull terriers, and dachshunds are most at risk. Analysis of police data indicates an 11% decline in thefts compared with the previous year. The decline may relate to improved public awareness and the Pet Abduction Act introduced in May 2024, which made pet theft a specific criminal offence in England and Northern Ireland. French bulldogs remain the most frequently stolen breed, while Staffordshire bull terriers, German shepherds, and dachshunds increased. Cocker spaniels recorded the fastest year-on-year growth. The recovery rate is low, with about 344 dogs reunited with owners, around 21% of thefts.
"An average of four dogs were stolen daily across the UK last year, according to the latest police figures. This statistic contributes to a total of approximately 25,000 reported dog thefts over the past 11 years, with popular breeds such as French bulldogs, Staffordshire bull terriers and dachshunds identified as most at risk."
"Analysis of police data by Direct Line revealed an 11 per cent decline in thefts compared to the previous year. This reduction may be linked to improved public awareness and the implementation of the Pet Abduction Act in May 2024, which established pet theft as a specific criminal offence in England and Northern Ireland."
"Despite the overall decrease, French bulldogs continue to be the most frequently stolen breed. Thefts of Staffordshire bull terriers, German shepherds, and dachshunds, however, saw an increase. Cocker spaniels, while ranking eighth overall, recorded the fastest growth in reported thefts year-on-year."
"The recovery rate for stolen pets remains low, with an estimated 344 dogs reunited with their owners, representing just 21 per cent of all thefts a figu"
Read at www.independent.co.uk
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]