Reports of the cruel crime of pet theft is on the rise. And while recent police investigations into pet theft have resulted in numerous raids and arrests, more can be done.
That's why we have set up a new taskforce to gather evidence to understand the factors that may be contributing to any perceived rise in thefts and to recommend any necessary measures to tackle the problem.
The taskforce will:
- work with police, law enforcement, and experts to understand and tackle pet theft
- consider the issue from end to end, including causes, prevention, reporting, enforcement and prosecution.
- make clear and timely recommendations on ways to reduce pet theft.
They will report on the findings and publish its recommendations this Autumn. The plans are part of the Government’s commitment to further strengthening the UK’s position as a global leader in animal welfare standards and take steps to end live animal exports and crack down on the illegal smuggling of dogs and puppies, with further proposals to improve standards and eradicate cruel practices to be set out later this month.
