We all know Australians love their pets and after the pandemic pet boom, Animal Medicine Australia estimated that over 6.9 million households have a pet today!
But an increase in pet ownership has also led to an increase in ‘petnapping’. The theft of household pets is more than just a financial loss for the owners. For most dog and cat parents, their fur-baby is a part of the family, and the theft of these family members can cause considerable emotional distress.
Domestic pet theft spiked in 2020 when COVID hit and since then, on average there has been over 300 reported pets stolen each year.
The surge in pet theft, or ‘petnapping’ has a clear culprit: the skyrocketing prices of dogs during the pandemic. With nothing to do and the newfound freedom to work from home, many Australians found a reprieve from the loneliness of lockdown with the company of a pet. However, this surge in demand drove up the prices of dogs, making the petnapping business even more lucrative.
How to keep your pets safe
Tip #1. Get your pet microchipped
Get your pet microchipped, and make sure they are registered with the local council.
Tip #2. Keep your pet secure
Keep house gates closed and never leave your pets unattended in any area accessible from the street.
Tip #3. Beware of stranger danger
Use caution with overly curious strangers – providing too much information about your pet can make them a target for petnappers.
Tip #4. Keep your pets where you can see them
No matter how long you are stepping away for, never leave your pets unattended in your vehicle. Other than the risk to their wellbeing it also leaves them vulnerable to thieves.
That includes never leaving your dogs tied up outside shops or cafes. While tempting, they might not be there when you come back.
Tip #5. Secure your home
Consider installing CCTV cameras, sensor lights or a home alarm system in and around your property to deter potential petnappers.
Tip #6. Track your pets
Use smart GPS trackers such as an Airtag. Advanced trackers that are connected to an app on your phone have the function to notify you as soon as your pet moves outside of your home.
Reporting household pet theft anonymously
If you witness or have knowledge of household pet theft and wish to remain anonymous, you can make a difference by telling Crime Stoppers what you know. You can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online.
Additionally, if you have captured footage of the theft, sharing it can help Victoria Police investigate and take appropriate action. You can submit such footage when making a report online.