As the cost of living spikes to new heights, some choose cruel side hustles that break up families, inflicting immeasurable heartache
An estimated two million pets are stolen each year according to PetFBI. Predators will hop fences, smash and grab from parked cars and even snatch pets right off front porches (it’s not just our Amazon packages that are in danger!).
While pet thief profiles run the gamut from disgruntled neighbors to spiteful ex-spouses, the overwhelming motivator is greed. Pure-bred dogs especially fetch a premium on the black market, even at about half of what one might pay from a “reputable breeder.” Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians, Maltese and Chihuahuas top the list of stolen dog breeds, according to the American Kennel Club. Designer dogs like Labradoodles also are favored prey.
Some thieves may not care whether your pet has a pedigree, only that you have a high net worth. Many a pet parent has succumbed to ransom demands. Believe it or not, there are people who actively troll for non-spayed or neutered pets and traffic them to puppy mills. Still others scoop up “scrappy” breeds like pit-bulls, Boston Terriers, German Shepherds and Boxers to sell as “bait” dogs for the fighting ring (they’re not beyond snatching cats for the same purpose).
Beware the one who pawns themself off as an individual who pulled a red-listed animal from a shelter and wants nothing more than to find him or her that forever home — in exchange for healthcare costs. This is the mark of a “flipper.”
Fortunately, the old practice of selling “found” animals to research laboratories by “Class B Dealers” was outlawed in 2016.
Forewarned is forearmed. Here are some common-sense practices and strong deterrents to pet thieves:
Never leave your pet unattended in a car or tethered to a parking meter. Even enclosed yards leave your pet vulnerable if visible from the street or alley. Don’t allow cats to roam free. Indoor pets are healthier and happier.
Spaying or neutering pets makes them less likely to roam — and less likely to wear a target on their backs.
Always walk your dog on-leash. Ensure that ID tags and microchip information are up to date.
Join a community watch group. Monitor your neighborhood. Keep eyes peeled for suspicious people and activity.
If you believe your pet has been stolen:
Call your local police, sheriff and/or animal control immediately and file a report. Be proactive and persistent.
Comb the area where your pet was last seen. Call out their name. They may be more likely to hear you at night when the environment is less noisy.
Create a flier with your pet’s picture and information. Contact local shelters and post the flier on their community boards. Go to veterinary offices, the post office, pet product emporiums and dog parks and do the same. Indicate that your pet has a medical condition and needs attention immediately. This will arouse heightened awareness in concerned citizens and deter thieves.
Scour the web or newspaper for ads promoting adoption or sale of animals that match your animal’s description or from someone who claims to have found your pet. Ask specific questions to ensure they have your pet. If someone does claim to have your pet, don’t meet them alone or in a secluded place. Never hand over money until you have your pet in hand.
If you think you’ve found your pet and the person who stole him or her, do not approach the person without first contacting local law enforcement or animal control officer. Your pet could be removed from the premises or relocated before you can retrieve him.
If you’ve found a lost pet - and have identified the true pet parent - suggest that, in lieu of a reward, they donate to a favorite pet charity.
You can put a price on an iPhone prototype, but not on a loved one’s life.
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Click here for more pet safety tips from PetFBI.com and paws.com