Having a cat or dog around the house is without a doubt an extension of your family. Your home doesn’t feel the same without them, that’s why it can be so upsetting if something were to happen. Pet theft has become an ever increasing problem in recent years, with many owners subjected to heartbreak when finding their cat or dog has been stolen. There is a way for owners to stay ahead of the game and reduce the chances of theft though! At The Insurance Emporium, we want to help you reduce your odds of being a victim of such a crime, that’s why we’ve put together these tips on avoiding pet theft!
An outside chance of theft…
Whether you’ve tied them up outside a shop to nip in for a loaf of bread or left them outside the house to run in for something, leaving your pet alone outside could be the perfect invitation for a thief!
Guard your garden
Speaking of being outside, the majority of pet theft happens from an owner’s garden! Our recent FOI request found that 29% dog thefts between 2015 and 2017 took place in the garden!
Be wary of walkies!
Some dog thieves will keep an eye on when and where you walk your dog, hoping to establish a pattern. Changing up your routine and making yourself less predictable could be vital in avoiding theft whilst on walkies.
Get them microchipped
One potentially key deterrent for thieves could be getting your dog or cat microchipped. If this information is on your pet’s collar it could make them ‘too hot to handle’ for a potential thief!
Don’t leave them in the car!
There are many reasons why you shouldn’t leave your pet locked in the car. Aside from the obvious health implications, your pet could be a sitting duck for thieves whilst in the car! One smashed window and they’re away!
Sitting pretty…
When looking for a sitter, it might be a good idea to think of your pet as you would your child. Only use registered kennels and catteries if you’re going away. If you’re looking for a dog walker, ask your vet or a friend for a recommendation, and always check references!
Spay may be the way!
Some thieves might take your animal in order to profit from selling their future offspring. Having your pet spayed or neutered could mean that they’re less appealing to potential thieves.
Look after the little ones!
If you’re selling a litter of puppies and kittens, just be careful how and where you advertise this. They can be very valuable to thieves, who might stop at nothing to get them!
Pet Theft Awareness
If you head to the Pet Theft Awareness website you can find lots of useful information, as well as being able to sign a petition for the reclassification of pet theft to allow tougher sentencing!
Having a pet in your life can be a truly magical adventure, the last thing that you want is for your beloved cat or dog to become the victim of theft. You might also want to consider purchasing some Pet Insurance to help protect you should the unforeseen happen. At The Insurance Emporium, our Pet Insurance policies cover Loss By Theft Or Straying for up to £1,500* and all new policies include a 20% Introductory Discount^! If you’re looking to secure a quote, head to The Insurance Emporium!
*Loss By Theft Or Straying only covered up to £1,500 on Lunar Monthly Lifetime, Time Limited and Maximum Benefit Gold policies.
^20% Introductory Discount is available for the first 12 premium payments on lunar and calendar monthly policies or one premium payment on annual policies.
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This blog is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Pet Theft Awareness.
