Who'd have thought!
We know Valentine’s day is coming but did you know that it is also an important day for our pets? It’s a day about awareness. Keeping our pets safe from pet thieves.Yes, from thieves! Thousands of pets are stolen each day. Stolen right out of our own backyards, houses, and cars. Even out of our arms on an innocent walk!
What are you doing to prevent dog theft in your neighborhood? Is there anything we can do about the rising concern about pet theft? In our economy it’s not unheard of when we turn the news on about lots of theft taking place. UPS drivers caught on security cameras stealing Fed X packages at the doors they also delivered too, teens and adults alike shoplifting at major stores and outlets. Wow, really? It’s gotten this bad?
Pets are not safe either. There have been numerous reports of pets that have access to doggy doors and/or that are left outside while their owners are away, that have been stolen right out of their backyards. The reasons? I guess there are a few. Money maybe? Seems to be the highest culprit. These predators will search for pure bred or unique looking dogs in backyards, grab them and sell them for cash on Craigslist, other Ad spots or to friends. Sad, isn’t it? Breaks my heart at what the pet is going through. Ripped away from his family right from their own backyard….. a place that is supposed to be safe.
Here are a few things you could do to help keep your pets safe and out of the hands of thieves.
1. Don’t leave your pets outside in the backyard if you have to leave your house, even for a few minutes!
2. Doggy doors can be nice, but think twice about installing or using one especially if you have a purebred pet and or a pet that is under 12 pounds. Often people mistake a missing pet from being stolen, when in fact it has been taken by a hawk, owl or coyote. Please do NOT use a doggy door if your pet is less than 12 lbs.! If you have one, then please make sure they are not outside alone.
3. Microchip your pets. If you ever see your pet again in the arms of a stranger, you have the proof it’s your pet. Many veterinarians will ask new clients if their pet is microchipped. Well, if they have a pet who has been a victim of a thief, they wouldn’t know that it is microchipped. If they say “No, or I’m not sure”, the staff scans the pet. If a chip is found a quick, simple scan can alert us to the true owner. A fast phone call to them is all that is needed.
4. Don’t leave your pet UN-attended in your car.
5. Don’t let anyone come into your home to pet sit your animals unless you know you can trust them! That is why the Az Pet Professionals is here for you! We know each other and trust each other. You can always rest assured we have licensed, bonded and trusted pet sitters!
So this week, let’s pay extra attention and have keen awareness of this important, often overlooked problem and do your part on keeping your pets safe from theft.
Thanks pet friends!
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