Pet Theft Awareness Week (14th - 21st March) is an annual event to raise awareness and educate pet owners about pet theft and the steps that can be taken to prevent your pet from being stolen.
How to protect your pet from theft
Nobody wants to think about what would happen if your furry friend was stolen, but being aware and taking steps to prevent the worst happening could be a game changer. Some simple tips you can follow include:
- Don’t leave your dog unattended, for example tied up outside a shop or in a vehicle, even if it’s just a brief period. Thieves are quick and opportunistic and won’t need long to take your pet
- Ensure that all microchip details are up to date with your correct address and contact details, that’s a call you don’t want to miss
- Pay attention to any potential risks while walking your dog. Being distracted by things like your mobile phones may give thieves more opportunity
What to do if your pet is stolen
If your pet is stolen, it’s important that you act fast. Always report the theft to the police as soon as possible and obtain a Crime Reference Number. It could also help to:
- Share recent pictures of your pet on social media and on sites such as DogLost
- Check sites where pets are sold to see if yours has been put up for sale
- Alert your microchip database to the fact that your pet is missing
- Remember to check your insurance policy terms and conditions for advertising cover or theft/straying cover which may be applicable
Peace of mind with pet insurance
While following these precautions can help to keep your beloved companions safe, pet insurance can give you additional peace of mind. We can provide advertising cover or theft/straying cover as part of our pet insurance.