Hold onto your precious puppy. The American Kennel Club reported three times as many dog thefts in the first five months of 2008 than in all of 2007. While not as high as other types of property theft this very upsetting form of loss due to theft is obviously on the rise. While it is shocking that anyone would sink so low as to steal a dog, there are a number of likely motives. Dogs may be stolen as a means to acquire a pet. A high number of the thefts were reported around Valentines Day, which could mean they were stolen and then given as gifts. Online sellers of dogs also create a means for thieves to turn a profit from a stolen dog. This puts purebreds, puppies and toy dogs at particular risk, since sellers can ask a high price for them. For example, a King Charles Spaniel would generally sell for $3000. A thief could sell one for $1500, turn that high profit, and avoid questions. Buyers would consider themselves lucky to find such a great deal and keep quiet. Dogs stolen in those early months of 2008 included Yorkshire terriers, poodles, Pomeranians, shih tzu, bulldogs, corgis, a Norwich terrier and a mastiff.

Dog theft can occur in a number of ways. Some thieves walk off with puppies from pet stores and animal shelters or take dogs tied up outside stores and coffee shops. Others are more elaborate in their schemes. They will pose as interested buyers to scope out a home and later return to abduct the animals. In Los Angeles last year, two armed men used this method and then held a family of four at gun point while stealing four Yorkshire terrier puppies and one adult dog. Yet this kind of planned operation is far less common than a thief simply taking advantage of inattentive owners. The black market sale of animals, such as craigslist, instills a temptation in individuals. So while most do not wake up planning to steal a pet, they might consider the crime if an opportunity arises.

Dogs are not the only animals at risk, as cats are also being targeted by thieves. Last year the theft of a kitten named Ernie in Virginia prompted proposed legislation in that state to make stealing a cat a felony rather than a misdemeanor. In some states the theft of a dog is already a felony, but it may depend on the worth of the animal. For example, in Ohio, theft of a dog valued under $500 is a misdemeanor, while stealing a pet worth more than $1,000 from a home is considered felony grand theft.

There are a number of ways to safeguard your pet in the event of theft, such as microchips, registered identity tattoos through the National Dog Registry and GPS collars. But prevention is best handled through attentiveness and mindful interactions with others. You should never leave your dog alone in your yard for long periods, especially if it’s visible from the street. If strangers approach you with admiring comments about your dog, don’t share information about his cost or where you live.
You can also keep an extra eye on the dog through a security camera placed in your car or in your front yard. If your eyes are turned you could lose your little loved one, but with the cameras eye, you may be able to get it back to your home and arms more easily.