This dedicated webpage provides advice and guidance on what to do if you are faced with dog theft or find a lost dog.
UK dog theft is on the rise according to a BBC article, and this year has been the worst. With increased time at home due to Covid-19, people have been more likely to consider getting a companion. This has created a rise in demand and in turn placed a higher concern on the theft of working dogs.
Working gundogs are special as not only are they our best friend, but they are highly trained and indispensable for gamekeepers and those who work in shooting. This can make them high priority for gundog theft as working dogs are known to be of good pedigree, well socialised and well mannered.
Here are a few tips on what you can do to help prevent or deter gundog theft…
There are many steps you can take, both at home and while attending shoots or organised events, to improve the safety and security of your dogs.
The reason many gundog thefts occur is because they are typically well mannered and well trained. They are also more likely to be kept in kennels outside or in vehicles on a shoot that may not be locked.
Unfortunately, there isn’t just one thing you can do to improve security but instead multiple layers which when implemented can deter criminals from breaking in. Here are some ideas:
When advertising a litter of puppies, it’s crucial to be vigilant of all prospective owners.
Ensure you don’t give away too many details. Opportunists can use the information you provide, like your location, to target the litter. Here are some tips on how to prevent gundog theft when selling puppies:
If the dog appears to be scared or wary of you, contact the local dog warden and alert them to the area that you have seen the dog. Many dogs will act this way if they have been missing for a few days or more.
You can also register the dog as ‘found’ on DogLost, and alert local vets, kennels and charities.
All dogs are legally required to wear a collar with an identification tag in public places, unless under specific circumstances. Use this to verify ownership. Do not arrange to meet with anyone unless you can prove that they are the owner of the dog. If you are in any doubt, contact your local dog warden or local charities.
For more information on gundogs, dog insurance and the latest news, click here.
Images by Richard Faulks and Nick Ridley
More than three-quarters of dog owners have taken additional actions to protect their dogs from theft over the last twelve months, according to a major new survey. The survey, conducted by the British Association for
A major new survey by BASC has found that three-quarters of respondents have taken additional precautions to protect their dogs from theft over the past year.
BASC has conducted an online survey to inform our future work in relation to dog theft.
Matt Cross writes about the experience of his dog going missing and how gundog owners can prevent their dogs from getting lost or stolen.
Gundog Theft Awareness Week helps inform the public about the increased risk to gundogs and provides information on keeping your dogs secure.
Two dogs that were stolen from outside their home in rural Perthshire have been reunited with their owner.
Should the unthinkable happen and your dog is stolen, a policy with BASC Dog Insurance is available to support you. We remove the financial worry by providing up to £1,500 of cover for the costs involved with advertising and this includes up to £250 towards a reward. No excess is payable for claims under this benefit, which is included automatically within all BASC Dog Insurance policies.
For a quote visit agriapet.co.uk/BASC or call 03330 30 82 05.
Quote HS19 for £50 to spend at your vet, free with a new policy.
