Police are warning of a surge in dognappings in the Christmas run-up.

Families are being left heartbroken as burglars target designer breed puppies they can sell on as festive gifts.

Colin Butcher, director of UK Pet Detectives, estimated an average eight dogs are stolen every day, with the total rising to at least 10 during the first two weeks of December.

He said: “It’s an awful offence. The devastation that thieves cause to the families afterwards is immeasurable.”

• 

  Loyal dog hailed hero after rescuing entire family from fire in middle of night

• 

  Morrisons mad cat has to be rehomed because it loves the supermarket so much

Crooks used a drone to spy on an autistic girl’s home and steal her therapy Dalmatian in Leicestershire on December 1.

Rob Layton, 45, was battered while walking his Staffies in Wakefield, West Yorks, two days later.

And a litter of American bulldog pups was stolen in Rochester, Kent, last Friday.

Ed Hayes, of The Kennel Club, said: “Pet theft is traumatic for any dog and owner, so we recommend being vigilant and taking precautions to help keep dogs safe. Owners should make sure their dogs are microchipped.”

• Christmas
• Dogs

Source: Read Full Article