Mid and East Antrim pet lovers warned of ‘lucrative’ dog theft business

Mid and East Antrim Borough dog owners are urged to be vigilant with stolen pets now being sold for more than £1,000.
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Council and the PSNI are teaming up on a campaign of awareness in response to the rise in dog thefts.

The local authority stated: “Dogs are now fetching over £1000 for certain breeds, so this has become a lucrative business, do not leave your dog alone in your gardens.

“There is a growing trend for pet dogs to be stolen.”

Owners are warned dogs can be stolen any one of the following reasons:

⚠To be sold on (especially pedigree dogs);

⚠To be used for dog fighting as bait (any dog);

⚠To be bred to produce puppies for sale;

⚠To be used for “lamping”, hunting or poaching.

“Dogs are being stolen by a range of different individuals involved in organised criminal gangs on the move around the country,” the statement added.

“We are appealing to the public to take extra crime prevention measures when it comes to caring for your pet, particularly high-value breeds of dogs.

“If a dog is stolen, it’s important to act quickly:

“Immediately report the theft to PSNI by dialling 101 or reporting online.

“Report the loss to council’s enforcement officer team on T: 028 2563 3394, your vet and your dog’s microchip company.”

Click here to read: Angry Islandmagee dog owner’s nine-page letter to Boris Johnson over new regulations

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