Commissioner Encourages People to Complete National Dog Theft Survey
Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall is supporting the national Dog Theft survey, launched by the Association of Police & Crime Commissioners (APCC), to understand and learn more about public perception of dog theft, enforcement and the prosecution of offenders
According to Dog Lost, the UK’s largest lost and found dog service, it is estimated that since the start of the pandemic, thefts have risen by 250 per cent, with criminal gangs involved. The responses to this survey will help inform the discussions that Police and Crime Commissioners will have on this issue nationally and allow police forces to better understand the public’s views on this crime and how they might improve their response to these concerns.
Peter McCall comments: “Demand for dogs as pets has increased during the coronavirus pandemic and in some cases, puppies are for sale for as much as £3,000, making them a valuable commodity to criminals.
“The Home Secretary is currently reviewing the issue of pet theft and what future enforcement may look like, with potentially tougher penalties for perpetrators.
“Cumbria is the perfect place for dog owners to live and enjoy sharing the countryside, parks and footpath network with their pets.
“For many people, a pet becomes part of the family, a close companion that helps to improve wellbeing and their quality of life, which is why it is so devasting to know that dog theft is on the increase as an organised crime.
“I would like to encourage as many people as possible to take a few moments to complete this survey and take part in this national consultation, so that we can create a clear picture and work together in tackling this crime.”
The survey only takes a few moments to complete and is open until 17:00 on Friday 12th March. Follow the link:
https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/dogtheft
