Walter’s first time in the field
Victoria Chesters talks about the many firsts at the opening of this year’s partridge season in company of her new gundog-(still)-in-training, Walter.
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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.
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.
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.
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:
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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Victoria Chesters talks about the many firsts at the opening of this year’s partridge season in company of her new gundog-(still)-in-training, Walter.
Judging in BASC’s gamekeeper rings at Crufts is a dream for many who have dedicated years to breeding and training working gundogs.
Read about the Braque D’auvergne in the first in our series on gundog breeds, courtesy of Gundog Journal.
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© 2024 British Association for Shooting and Conservation. Registered Office: Marford Mill, Rossett, Wrexham, LL12 0HL – Registered Society No: 28488R. BASC is a trading name of the British Association for Shooting and Conservation Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under firm reference number 311937.
If you have any questions or complaints about your BASC membership insurance cover, please email us. More information about resolving complaints can be found on the FCA website or on the EU ODR platform.
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