Stolen - act quickly
Immediate actions if your dog is stolen
Call the police
Make sure your dog is recorded as stolen (not
missing) and obtain a crime reference number.
Microchip
Contact the microchip database provider. Ensure the database is updated to “stolen”.
Insurance
Contact your insurer to inform them of the theft. Provide them with the crime reference number.
Some insurers will reimburse the cost of advertising and/or a reward for the safe return of your dog.
Dog warden
Contact your local dog warden to notify them of the
theft.
Subsequent actions
Spread the word
Use stolen and missing animal services such as:
and Facebook groups.
Create a post for awareness, including a recent clear photograph of your
dog and listing distinctive features (not changeable things such as collars or
a particular haircut).
Vets and rescues
Contact local vets, rescue centres, and charities. Ask if they’ve seen your dog, and provide details so they can keep an eye out (maybe export your dog’s profile from the HOWL app).
Dogs for sale
Monitor websites such as Gumtree and Pets4Homes, along with Facebook pages that the thief
might use to sell your dog. If you find
a listing you believe relates to your dog, screenshot it (in case it is deleted, altered, or removed) and contact the police. Do not
try to arrange a sting or recovery operation on your own; only ever do something like that with the assistance of the police or other trained and experienced professionals.