Concern over 'dozens of dog thefts' in Sheffield in last couple of years

An animal welfare charity has expressed concern after figures revealed more than 200 pet dogs have been reported stolen over the last couple of years in South Yorkshire.
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Police data obtained using the Freedom of Information Act revealed 225 pet pooches were reportedly nabbed from their owners between January 2017 and August 2019.

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Doncaster had the highest number of incidents in that time frame with 78 alleged crimes, followed by Sheffield with 62. There were 48 incidents in Barnsley and 37 in Rotherham.

French Bulldog.French Bulldog.
French Bulldog.
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Police have noted a rise in thieves stealing so-called 'designer dog' breeds made popular by celebrities and a charity said the most targeted breeds include French Bulldogs, Chihuahuas and Pugs.

The release of the figures come after a poster was recently placed near Beauchief Woods which stated that two men picked a dog up ‘by the scruff of the neck’ and told its owner they were ‘taking it’.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals expressed 'concern' over the figures and urged dog owners to take precautions to ensure their beloved pet is not stolen.

A spokesperson for the charity said: “It’s really concerning to see how many dogs are being stolen each year and we’d urge anyone who believed their pooch has been taken to report the incident to police immediately.

Dene Tinker. Dene Tinker.
Dene Tinker.
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“We’d urge all dog owners to take extra precautions to protect their pooches from thieves by neutering their pets, ensuring they are microchipped with up-to-date contact details registered, ensuring they wear a collar with contact details embroidered or an engraved ID tag.

“We’d also advise that owners never leave their pets tied up outside shops or alone in cars, ensure their gardens are secure with gates locked, and ensure their pet has a good recall and doesn’t stray too far when off-lead on walks.”

Kerriann Wiles, rehoming centre manager at the Blue Cross animal welfare charity in Sheffield, added: “The impact that the theft of a beloved pet has on a family is devastating. Not knowing what has happened to them or where they are is very distressing for both owners and pets alike.

“Pets need their familiar surroundings and to be with those they love and trust to feel safe and happy.”

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South Yorkshire Police's Designing Out Crime Officer Dene Tinker said the most common reasons for dogs being stolen are 'high values attached to designer dogs' and a 'lack of awareness of the dangers of leaving your dog unattended.'

He added that often thieves 'steal dogs to sell them on for breeding.'

The officer urged dog owners to “make sure your dog has a collar” as an “ID tag with your telephone numbers means your dog can be reunited with you very quickly.”