(Adopted from The Humane Society of the United States)
The theft of pets is tragic. There are many ways to steal pets, and unsupervised animals are the most vulnerable of all. You can protect your pet from being stolen by taking a few precautions:
Keep your pet on a leash whenever you take him/her on a walk.
Make sure your pet is always on a leash or in a carrier when in a car to ensure that your pet does not get loose.
Never leave your pet unattended in a parked car or tie your pet outside a store while you run inside—it takes only a few seconds for someone to steal your pet.
Neuter or spay your pet to curb his/her desire to roam and to eliminate the incentive for those stealing animals for breeding.
Make sure your pet wears a collar and identification at all times: ID, rabies and license tags can deter thieves by showing that your pet is not a stray. Ask your local animal shelter or veterinarian if backup methods of identification (tattoos or microchips) are available in your community.
If your pet is missing, be ready to supply your pet’s license information and an accurate written description to help authorities identify your pet.
Report suspected incidents of pet theft to your local animal-control agency and local police to put them on the alert and help them establish patterns of pet theft.
If you suspect pet theft is occurring in your area, start a neighborhood watch. The more eyes there are looking out for pets, the better.
Despite federal legislation protecting companion animals, pet theft remains a serious problem. If you would like more information, write to the Companion Animals Section, The Humane Society of the United States, 2100 L. St., NW, Washington, DC 20037
