New Taskforce To Investigate Dog Thefts

A new government taskforce has been launched to investigate the rise in pet thefts.

It will gather evidence and recommend additional measures to help tackle the issue, which has increased during the pandemic.

A number of dogs have been stolen across the Hfm Region in recent months.

Harborough MP Neil O’Brien has been pushing for action on the issue and spoke to Hfm:

Bassett Hounds stolen from South Kilworth were found by Police in Greater Manchester

The Pet Theft Taskforce will be made up of government officials from Defra, Home Office and Ministry of Justice and Police. It will also seek input from animal welfare groups and experts in relevant fields.

It will:

• Work with police, law enforcement, and experts to understand and tackle pet theft
• Consider the issue from end to end, including causes, prevention, reporting, enforcement and prosecution.
• Make clear and timely recommendations on ways to reduce pet theft.

Sales platforms have reported a considerable rise in puppy and kitten prices over the course of the past year following more people deciding to buy or adopt a pet. Recent reports have suggested that this may be leading to a rise in pet thefts.

According to DogsTrust, the price for five of the UK’s most sought after breeds grew significantly during the first lockdown with the price of some breeds rising by as much as 89%.

Google searches for ‘buy a puppy’ increased by 166% in the months between March and August following the start of lockdown last year.