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Gundog Theft Awareness Week 2024: protecting your gundog
In recent years, gundog theft has become a pressing concern in the UK. This includes organised crime syndicates and opportunistic thieves frequently targeting these high-value animals.
Gundog theft – a lucrative business
Gundogs are sought for their skills and training, as well as their market value. They’re an attractive target for both resale and breeding.Â
Statistics reveal the troubling scale of this issue. Around 196 dogs of all types are stolen monthly across the UK. Of these, only around 22 per cent make it back to their families. Unfortunately, recovery rates vary widely based on factors like location and law enforcement response. What’s even worse, only about two per cent of these cases lead to charges.
Low prosecution rates have sparked a call for heightened security measures and vigilance, especially among rural and agricultural communities where working dogs are essential.
Preventing gundog theft
Addressing this growing problem requires collective awareness and proactiveness from owners and authorities alike to help protect valuable and much-loved gundogs.
Professional thieves don’t rely solely on chance. Many monitor gundog owners’ social media posts and even scout kennels, keeping a close eye on potential targets.
The past year has seen an alarming rise in dog thefts of all kinds. From opportunistic thieves snatching family pets from gardens to premeditated farm raids stealing multiple working dogs at once, it seems no dog is safe.
The emotional and financial toll of such losses can be devastating, underscoring the importance of protecting the gundogs that are both vital partners and beloved companions.
BASC working dog insurance is here to help
So, what can owners do to protect their dogs from this growing threat? To help safeguard your dog from theft, BASC’s working dog insurance team has shared some practical tips:
- Microchipping your dog and ensuring the information is current, is essential. This is a legal requirement, and plays a key role in locating stolen dogs.
- Have clear, detailed photos of your dog from multiple angles, especially of any unique markings. These can be crucial in identifying your dog if it goes missing.
- Never leave your dog unattended – even in locked vehicles. Securing your dog in a car might not deter dog thieves, so aim to always keep them in sight.
- Ensure your property is fenced and outdoor areas are not visible to passers-by. Think like a thief – what weak points might they see?
- Place kennels as close to your home as possible for easy monitoring and to deter intruders.
- Use security cameras and lighting around kennels and entry points. Regularly check your equipment, as thieves may attempt to disable cameras in advance.
- Be alert to any unusual symbols or markings near your property, as these can indicate your home as a target.
- Lock and alarm gates, doors and other property access points.
- Remove ladders or other tools that could make it easier for thieves to access your property.
- Use local social media and neighbourhood watch groups to stay aware of any suspicious sightings and share information if your dog is targeted.
- Always report suspicious activity to the police and engage with rural watch or farm watch groups.
- If you’re selling a dog or puppies, keep a close eye on visitors and don’t leave them alone with the litter.
- Report a theft immediately by calling 999, noting your crime reference number and informing local councils, dog wardens, vets and animal rescues.
- Alert neighbours, local shops and services quickly and post photos on social media and pet recovery sites like Dog Lost. Fast action and wide coverage increase the chances of a safe return.
Benefits of BASC working dog insurance
If you do find yourself in the horrendous position of having your dog or dogs stolen, BASC working dog insurance will assist with the cost of advertising and providing a reward (up to a specified limit) to help reunite dogs with their owners.
If your dog is covered by our insurance and is stolen and not recovered within 45 days, Agria will refund the dog’s purchase price, up to a maximum of £2,500.
For more information or a quote, call 03330 308 205 or visit BASC dog insurance.
Let’s make sure our valuable companions are always safe and that you are ready to act if the worst happens and your dog gets taken.
BASC Direct Ltd is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Agria Pet Insurance Ltd who administer the insurance and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Financial Services Register Number 496160. Agria Pet Insurance is registered and incorporated in England and Wales with registered number 04258783. Registered office: First Floor, Blue Leanie, Walton Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP21 7QW. Agria insurance policies are underwritten by Agria Försäkring.
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