Dognapping On the Rise—Protect Your Pet

Thursday, August 2, 2012 - 11:15am
Dognapping On the Rise—Protect Your Pet

Pet theft is on the rise. The American Kennel Club, which has been tracking pet thefts since 2007, reported a 32% increase in dog thefts last year.

While some animals are snatched from their yards or during home invasions, opportunistic thieves most commonly steal dogs left in cars or tied up outside stores. In the ASPCA’s hometown of New York City, dognappings skyrocket every summer as pet parents take advantage of nice weather to combine dog-walking with errand-running.

Protect Your Pet
Avoid becoming a victim of this heartbreaking crime!

  • When running errands around town, visit pet-friendly establishments or please leave your dog at home.
  • Keep a close eye on your pet in designated off-leash areas, where he could become a target for criminals looking to make a quick buck. (Pet thieves often try to resell—or even hold for ransom—stolen dogs.)
  • Avoid leaving your pet unattended in the front yard, especially if your lawn is exposed or accessible.
  • The same rules apply for leaving your pet tied up outside a store. In addition to being vulnerable to theft and teasing, your dog might escape or get injured.
  • Microchip your pet! Microchipping can often mean the difference between temporary and permanent separation from your furry loved one.

For more important information about what to do if your pet is missing, please read our article on Finding a Lost Pet.

Tags: 
Pet Care

Comments

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 13:43 — lindalou (Visitor)
Hi, I saw your post and it saddens me that someone who would love the company of a dog may not be able to afford one.. Dogs are very helpful for seniors and I would just like to let you know that the Humane Society had programs to help match seniors with dogs and a very reduced rat. they even provide low cost vet services for low and fixed income.. they would be a good resource to help you obtain and keep a pet.. like you said loving a dog is good therapy for both you and the dog and everyone deserves that

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 17:40 — carol (Visitor)
Lynn, I don't know where you live, but around here, the shelters have been so overwhelmed with cats and dogs that all of them have been adopting out at little to no cost (adult cats =free; dogs = $17, etc). That barely covers the cost of the paperwork, much less the food, shots, etc. I have a problem believing that ANY breeder could beat those prices. No to mention the rescue organizations that eat the cost of fostering, medical attention, transportation, etc., asking for only a minimal adoption fee in return.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 20:52 — Ruby (Visitor)
I totally agree with you Lynn. I breed poms and I don't charge what the others do because I wanted to give others a chance to own this breed if they liked the breed. I have been doing this for over 15 yrs....I only breed if I know others are wanting one, not for the money....I have poms (my babies) I rescued a mini dox and love him to death also, my daughter has a boxer so I am doing my part...lol. Dogs are great companions!! My dogs are my kids!!!!

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 23:14 — Lucee (Visitor)
Wow! That's a sad statement of the "shelter" you dealt with! I think, if I found that to be the practice at a shelter, I'd fire off so many letters and post so many notices, there would eb an investigation. Remember this: many so-called "shelters" and "animal rescues" are a ruse to make money, without any real concern for animals or their welfare. Always check out "charities" and EXPOSE the frauds-- loud and clear-- and contact the authorities with complaints and concerns (valid) to REALLY rescue the poor creatures being held hostage by unscrupulous con-artists. Remember: we are the voice for animals.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 09:52 — dog lover (Visitor)
Please dont spend 1200 on a dog. Do you know how many shih-zhu's you could adopt with that amount?

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 10:47 — Rebecca (Visitor)
It was just a number. Dogs often cost that much. He came from a reputable breeder, and instead of giving me crap for how much I spent on my dog how about worrying about the fact that this person thinks it's okay to just take him because she doesn't like where i leave him for 10 minutes.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 12:26 — Athens (Visitor)
There is no such thing as a reputable Breader. ANY Breader should NOT even exist as long as there are homeless dogs already here! No need to bring in more!!!

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 23:43 — Lucee (Visitor)
There ARE reputable breeders and there is nothing wrong with buying a puppy from one. Yes, there are many shelter dogs who need homes...and it's nice to adopt one (or more) of them, too...or support them with monetary donations or volunteered time at a shelter caring for them. We are NOT at war with other pet parents, here, are we? We have no right to condemn someone who buys from a reputable breeder (BUT, PLEASE--check them out-- no backroom or shack or crate breeders!) and who raises their pup responsibly and with love. What I DO find awful is, someone who takes that first responsible step to buy from a reputable breeder- then, TURNS AROUND and breeds their dog! YUCK! I, personally, neuter ALL my pets, but I adopt "troubled" critters, even as pups, which is my practice for many years now. (a drug-bust orphaned pup (ASPCA), a hoarder's pup, a teacup pup with epilepsy and NO medical care or shots and molera damage, due to a backroom breeder's irresponsibility and stupidity). All "rescues" in one form or another. So--I choose not to ever perpetuate the misery my doggies might have known, if I didn't adopt them instead. I'm not a breeder and have NO desire to be. BUT-- don't take the low road by trashing good pet parents, no matter HOW they obtained their pets. Good breeders love their dogs and are very selective about "homes" they place them in...and they are dedicated to their dogs. We have to be responsible and sensible about NOT fighting with and against people who have the best interest of animals and their OWN pets foremost and NOT force an agenda of alienation on them. That's the equivalent of a stay-at-home Mom damning the working Mom and v-versa. Understand? Good IS good, no matter how it happens...and we should all works toward saving and helping animals-- not fighting about the "value" of a pet, based upon whether it is "shelter" or "reputably pedigree bred." Animals ALL have value...even the poor creatures that are bred by creeps who don't care at all about them, except for their monetary return. ALL animals deserve to be loved-- and saved. Hopefully, laws wil put the bad breeders out of business and the animals they are torturing for cash will all be adopted away from them. Then, all that will be left will be reputable breeders and the animals that will STILL land in shelters (for whatever reasons)...and they will find responsible, loving homes faster and better... That's what we hope for...Agreed?

Sat, 08/04/2012 - 12:09 — Rebecca (Visitor)
I agree. My dog's breeder was a loving family that did things correctly. My boy was too big to be a show dog, so he was going to be a pet. That's all I wanted anyway. And for those people complaining because shelters are full...I went there first. I went to shelters all over the place first. But I live in an apartment and could only have a dog weighing under 20 pounds. The shelters in this area don't have a lot of small dogs or young dogs for that matter. I was in a pretty bad place in my life when I got my dog. I'm done defending myself to you people. I love my dog. I've loved all my dogs, most of whom have been "pound puppies." My dog is neutered, he has health insurance, goes to the vet regularly, gets all the food, love, etc. that he needs, and has more toys than most kids. I own him, I love him, where I got him and what I spent on him is my concern.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 09:56 — Karen (Visitor)
Just because someone is removing a dog from a car does not mean they're going to go sell the dog. In some areas, humane officers will remove the pet from a car on a hot day to prevent the dog's death, but not all areas have an active animal control office. Dogs can suffer and/or die in hot cars - so it doesn't seem like the above posts are referring to rescuing a dog from such conditions in order to sell the dog for profit. I understand your point, I'm just not sure you understood theirs.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 10:10 — Trisha (Visitor)
Seriously? You paid $1200 for a dog when there are dogs, some pure bred if that's what you must have, awaiting death row? Wow...

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 10:32 — Kathy (Visitor)
One of the least expensive dogs I now own was $ 1200.00, I work and show my dogs so yes I buy them, a rescued dog will not work for what I do with them. However I also have 2 rescues that are loved and cared for the same as the ones I have purchased.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 11:22 — Carolyn (Visitor)
Kathy - I know exactly what you are saying. Dogs rescued from a pound or shelter, regardless of being purebred, and not allowed in show rings or agility trials. They must have their Registration Certificate and pedigree to be entered. Most ethical breeders that breed for the show ring, also rescue their breed, which makes them more conscientious than most pet owners. If you managed to buy a show quality pup for 1200, consider yourself lucky, especially if it didn't come with breeder's rights.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 11:56 — Ray (Visitor)
My 2 rescue dogs are in Agility and Obedience. There is nothing stopping them from being in competition events. Just because they are mutts doesn't mean they can't do anything. They just can't be shown

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 14:48 — Kathy (Visitor)
I suppose if you are wanting to show a dog, then maybe you do have to get it from a breeder. I can't speak to that. I'm just talking about the average Joe who wants to buy an everyday pooch. I'm sorry to hear about some bad experiences some folks have had with various shelters, but I still think you can find perfectly good pets through a shelter, Humane Society, ASPCA, or other rescue groups without too much problem. Just my 2 cents.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 10:34 — Kari (Visitor)
I understand your point about rescuing a dog from a shelter, but don't dogs that are being sold deserve a forever home just as much? I completely understand your point, but I also feel like all dogs deserve a home. They have no control over whether they're being sold or adopted...

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 11:03 — Susan Storlazzi... (Visitor)
buying dogs encourages the sad state of puppy mills! so if you buy a dog you are supporting puppy mills and the neglect and horrific conditions dogs are kept in. It's basic supply and demand. And NO, real responsible breeders would never put their puppies in store fronts to sell them. they want to know who will be raising their dogs.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 11:27 — Carolyn (Visitor)
Susan, we are not speaking about buying a pet from a pet store - we are referring to purebred 'show' dogs. Ethical, responsible breeders do not sell their dogs at flea markets or store fronts. The vet the prospective owners, make them sign contracts, and most breeders reserve the right to repossess their dog if it is not being cared for properly. I know, I have done that twice. I used to breed, and because I did, I ran an all breed rescue. I also worked with my local humane society as a cruelty agent. I probably wouldn't have become involved in rescue if I hadn't gotten into breeding.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 10:35 — Kellie (Visitor)
Yes, shelters are full of dogs...this does not mean I shouldn't get the dog I want because other people are irresponsible and don't get their pets spayed/neutered. And you shouldn't bash people for choosing a breeder over a shelter...when there are pros and cons to both. One of the biggest ones being that you are going to know exactly what type and temperment of a dog you are going to get from a breeder. And for those of us that live in areas that ban certain breeds and require records...that is definitely a pro. With that being said, I support adoption and all other forms of procuring a best friend!

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 11:15 — Allison (Visitor)
I'm afraid I have to disagree with the statement "you are going to know exactly what type and temperment of a dog you are going to get from a breeder." While there are specific characteristics attributable to certain breeds - this one is better for scent tracking, while this one is for speed, and this one is better at herding, and this one is better for retrieiving or water work, you never know what temperment or personality you are going to get just because you purchase the dog from a breeder. I used to think you did, but when I was growing up, we had a Saluki (he was not show quality and was sold to us as a pet). A few years ago, my mother purchased two more Salukis, from different breeders. While they are all fast, neither of the two she has now are similar in personality to each other, or to the original one we had. 15 years ago my cousin purchased a cairn terrier and loved that dog more than anything in the world. As the dog got older, she went back to the same breeder, and got a second one from the same line. The second one's nickname is "devil dog" - the personality is completely different than the first. To that end, you also never know what you're going to get with a rescue dog. All my dogs have been rescues - some follow the temperment of the breed they are associated with, and some don't. Everyone remember to spay and neuter and support your local shelter or rescue group!

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 11:36 — Carolyn (Visitor)
You can never 'know' what the temperment of a dog is going to be, even from a breeder, but you can get an approximation. I didn't have two dogs the same, although I had numerous ones from the same line. What I could tell a prospective buyer was that my dogs were not aggressive, did not bite, and were excellent with children. What buying from a reputable breeder does usually guarantee, is the health of the dog. Most 'reputable' breeders screen their dogs for heriditary problems, and guarantee you are getting a healthy pet. Not so in pet stores or flea markets, or auctions. Different breeds have different breed-specific problems. This is something a breeder can inform you of. What to watch out for. A pet store pet will, more than likely, end up costing a person a small fortune in vet bills through no fault of their own. This is something one must keep in mind when adopting from a pound or shelter. There is only so much these folks can do and tell. The rest is up to chance

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 11:19 — Jane (Visitor)
Sorry Kellie...you DON'T know what you are going to get just because the dog is from a breeder. What do you know about the breeder? How do you know the breeder is responsible? The breeder's only objective is to make money...if that isn't a recipe for disaster, I don't know what is. Where do you think puppies sold in stores to anyone with the money come from? I think buying from breeders is an ego trip, and absolutely wonderful pets die because of it.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 12:47 — Natalie (Visitor)
This discussion is about dognapping and, as usual, people have to find something to get preachy about. No one has the right to judge others because they buy a pet instead of adopting one. I support/believe in adoption 100% and constantly "share" on my page about pets up for adoption. But, what about the pets being sold? Is it their fault they are not up to be adopted instead? No. They have no control over that. And they have just as much need/right of finding a forever home as animals in shelters. Sometimes buying them from breeders/stores is a rescue of it's own. We have no right to judge the choices others make, as long as the pets are being loved and well cared for.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 11:47 — Pam (Visitor)
Just be nice.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 10:57 — Micki (Visitor)
There are so many loving and needy pets that need homes...shame on you

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 11:22 — Krysta (Visitor)
Honestly, this level of immaturity is disgusting. This post was to remind us to protect our pets from petnapping. It is disheartneing to see self-righteous bashing of others. I have owned several dogs in my life from the who knows what she is street stray that had to have her left back leg amputated to a wonderful, carefully bred husky that I paid $600 for. I have adopted from the shelter more than I have bought, volunteer there and donate. I will say this. There are pros and cons for every choice. If you are buying a puppy from the newspaper without looking at the parents, vet records, etc than YES you are encouraging puppy mills but to debase another individuals choice to purchase a pet from a reputable breeder because YOU wouldn't is rude and inapprorpriate.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 11:31 — lynn (Visitor)
I have to agree with the fact that buying a dog from a good breeder does not bring shame. Vet bills are huge! Many of the mixed breeds have very bad health issues which can cause an owner financial difficulties I also support trying to improve a breed and to encourage responsible breeding. I have a service dog that is a purebred because I have special needs and certain breeds are good at certain skills. All Dogs are not just pets. They work for farmers, for the military, for the police force. Breeding for skills is necessary . Buying a dog from a pet store is shameful in my eyes because that encourages puppy mills. Tighter governing of breeders and fines for not spaying and neutering are what I think will help the over population of dogs. What has your involvement been with dogs? Most who are active with their dogs going to rally, agility, noseworks, hunting and fun things for dogs have open minds. I find those who do not take the time to train their dogs and expect them to be happy just because they have a roof and meals spout off about those of us who are active and involved with the dog community. I have gotten dogs from the shelters and donate a lot of money to them. I have a kennel in the name of one of my favorite dogs that is used for dogs in need. Please think before you start pointing fingers!

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 09:48 — Roberta Pliner (Visitor)
Taking a dog or anything else that doesn't belong to you without the owner's permission is THEFT, no matter what your reason for stealing. You don't know if the dog was left outside for five minutes or two hours, but if you think the dog is in trouble as a result of being outside too long, then call local animal control or even the police. Rescue is getting help for that dog if he needs help. It is not taking the law into your own hands.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 10:10 — godiva de maus (Visitor)
The fact that this issue seems to have such vigorous debate is indicative of some form of social breakdown, though I'm loathe to name it. Taking something that does not belong to you is theft. It can't be a rescue when there are other options involving say police, that are rescue. In our area the thefts are usually perpetrated by people hoping to collect the "reward" for return of the pet.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 12:29 — Puck (Visitor)
If a dog is obviously in distress inside a car on a hot day and Animal Control & the Police aren't coming, I would have to get the dog out of the car. Much better than watching it die.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 09:49 — MARIA DIVIRGILIO (Visitor)
It is also a good way for Dog fighters to get Bait Dogs. I never understand how people take their dogs on errens. Unless I can take my dogs into the store I leave them home at least I know they are safe. If anything were to happen to my babies I would die. They are to me my baby girls and they know it.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 10:17 — Mihku Paul (Visitor)
In our area we've had dogs stolen in the last couple of years, and then found dead at the side of the road a few days later. Authorities said it looked as if the dogs were used as bait dogs for a new fighting ring somewhere out in the country. I agree that there are far too many companion animals in need of loving homes to justify purchasing yet another. If you do, please purchase from a reputable breeder. Better yet, rescue one from the shelters which are overflowing with abandoned animals. I used to leave my dog (years ago) tied outside places downtown when I ran errands, as I kept her with me always. I would NEVER do that now. There are too many unscrupulous people out there. And don't think your dog will just be held for ransom. You could find your beloved pet wrapped in a trash bag, torn to pieces on the side of the road.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 11:24 — Krysta (Visitor)
We had a very small chiweenie puppy that needed constant supervision. I carried him around in the front of my jacket for several weeks. A lot of stores (including Walmart) have a policy that as long as the dog does not touch the cart or the floor its allowable. So if you carry your dog in your purse or your jacket its understandble. I don't agree with leaving an animal or child in the vehicle.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 17:42 — Carol (Visitor)
Good point, Maria.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 09:49 — Gia (Visitor)
Not when the dog isn't returned to the owner it isn't. You're missing the point that these people arent taking the dog to help them. They could easily call the police or ASPCA to have them deal with the issue. These people make no attempt to educated the miss guided owners.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 09:51 — Sandy Delvillar (Visitor)
I agree with Jennifer. You don't take a dog with you under any circumstances if you're going to tie it up. I reside in Texas and, cannot express enough how hot it gets here. Since 2008, I have called the police over 60 times on people that have left their pet in a car while shopping in grocery stores or Walmart. LEAVE the pet home. Use some common sense. I love animals way to much and, my pets to subject them to anything that would harm them.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 11:25 — M. Labelle (Visitor)
Of those 60 calls, do you actually get a police response to the scene? In these economic times with staff shortages, I'd be surprised if a cop actually shows up to investigate a dog in a car. We paid an extra $1600 for a solar-powered fan on our Prius just so our Little Guy is more comfortable if we have to leave him in the car. But we may refuse-think the whole thing if scumbags are stealing dogs from cars.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 09:59 — Janice (Visitor)
I completely agree with you! Anyone irresponsible and cold hearted enough to tie their 'beloved' pet to a pole on a hot summer day ought to be jailed.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 10:01 — Sandra Hall (Visitor)
I wouldn't take a dog that was tied upo outside a store or car or locked inside a car...I would call the police. It is against the law to leave an animal inside a locked car in NJ where I live...I don;t any of my 3 dogs with me to run errands...they are better off at home and I don;t have to worry about the heat, or theft...

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 11:50 — Carolyn (Visitor)
There are times, when an animal left locked in a car, doesn't have enough time left to 'wait' for a police officer or animal control to get there. Rescing an animal from a parked car is not theft if you don't take the dog away. I have twice now, broken a car window to get a dog out (one barely in time) and taken them directly to a local vet. Then I called the police and reported it. When the owners returned and found their window broken and dog gone, they went directly to the police station where they were fined and handed the vet bill. This is NOT theft. It only becomes theft when you try to keep or ransom or claim the reward for a pet.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 12:19 — Sally (Visitor)
So what do you suggest when you are traveling and need to run into the rest stop to use the restroom? I'm sure that bringing them into the facility would not be appreciated or allowed in almost any area. Do I now need to worry that someone will break my car window and "rescue" my dog when I spend 5 minutes relieving myself after my dogs have had the chance to? I fully agree that a dog should not be left in a car in most circumstances, and mine are left in with the e-brake on, air running, and doors locked when I find it necessary. But it's absolutely ridiculous that some of you think it's ok to take such drastic actions without understanding the situation.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 17:43 — Carol (Visitor)
Good for you.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 10:01 — Sandra Hall (Visitor)
I wouldn't take a dog that was tied upo outside a store or car or locked inside a car...I would call the police. It is against the law to leave an animal inside a locked car in NJ where I live...I don;t any of my 3 dogs with me to run errands...they are better off at home and I don;t have to worry about the heat, or theft...

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 10:18 — Clemmieo (Visitor)
I know where you are coming from; I hate to see dogs tied up or left alone with a long rope where they could hurt themselves, but the best thing is to report it and then it is between the police and the owner to handle it. I once came accross a dog outside a college ed building tied up on a very hot day and went and got it some water. As I was doing so, the owner came out and told me off and would not listen to my plea for showing humanity to his dog! So..... we have to be careful but still can be compassionate by reporting it and let the owner deal with the authorities who have the power and legal tools to handle the situation.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 10:30 — Denise (Visitor)
Not only do I feel VERY strongly about leaving a pet in a car un-attended, I carry copies of the ASPCA poster warning of the dangers with and give them to people I see about to leave their dog in their car and I've left them on windshields. That being said, I recently adopted a dog from the shelter where I do volunteer work. I take long road trips with Willow (which she loves, I might add) and, of course, occasionally have to take lunch and or potty breaks, not only for her, but for myself. Being single, I don't have the luxury of another person to watch her while I'm gone from the care for a few minutes. I find a shady spot to park and tie her leash to the passenger door handle and leave her a bowl of water. If I can't find a spot with no parking next to me at least someone attempting to park can see her before they pull in. She's a large German shepherd mix and hard to miss. I love travelling with my dog and she loves it too. We've had some great times that I would never have missed. If I saw someone trying to "rescue" my dog in this situation I would hate to think what my reaction would be. For their sake I hope I would have the presence of mind to call the authorities before I went "postal" on them. It IS theft, and sanctimonious at that! I suppose it's easy to be self righteous when you don't consider the situation and facts.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 10:37 — Kat (Visitor)
Well that's a broad assumption. I leave my dog in the car when it is cooler out, windows down for short trips. Also, leaving him outside a coffee shop for example is hardly cruel... you are only in there for a few minutes and then you can sit outside with your dog. If you live in NYC (or any urban area) it's commonplace.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 11:12 — vicky (Visitor)
In NYC, I saw a man come out of a store to find his dog was gone. So, I would not consider it safe even for a minute. Thieves are very quick to take anything and are looking for opportunities.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 11:24 — Kimberly Jarvis (Visitor)
Taking a dog that has been tied up outside or left in a car is not always a rescue. Most of the time it is theft & needs to be reported to the police. There have been several times when I left the house to walk my dog & realized that I didn't have a poop bag with me & had to go back into the house. I put the handle of her leash over the trailer hitch on my vehicle, ran into the house, grabbed a bag & away we went. Also, not everybody has a fenced in yard for their dog. Sometimes people need to tie their dog out for a short period of time. I used to do it myself before I was able to afford a fence for my yard. If a dog is left locked in a vehicle that is not running on a hot day, notify the management at the store where the vehicle is and call the police. If a dog is left tied out for long periods of time with no food or water, call Animal Control and let them know. Taking someone else's dog is stealing.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 11:40 — Judi (Visitor)
I want you to explain that "rescue" to the 5 year old child who will cry themselves to sleep for months after you perform your wonderful "rescue", It IS dognapping! Whether you agree with the method of care the dog is recieving or not. Shame on you to think otherwise.

Fri, 08/03/2012 - 12:15 — Sally (Visitor)
So what do you suggest when you are traveling and need to run into the rest stop to use the restroom? I'm sure that bringing them into the facility would not be appreciated or allowed in almost any area. Do I now need to worry that someone will break my car window and "rescue" my dog when I spend 5 minutes relieving myself after my dogs have had the chance to? I fully agree that a dog should not be left in a car in most circumstances, and mine are left in with the e-brake on, air running, and doors locked when I find it necessary. But it's absolutely ridiculous that some of you think it's ok to take such drastic actions without understanding the situation.

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