Pet theft law comes into force
Those found guilty of pet abduction could face up to five years in prison.
A new law that makes pet theft a specific crime has come into force in England and Northern Ireland.
Stolen pets have previously been recorded alongside inanimate objects as property theft. The new law is designed to acknowledge that animals are sentient beings and recognise the pain and distress that having a pet stolen can cause.
Under the Pet Abduction Act, police forces must now record pet theft as a specific crime. Those found guilty of the offence could face up to five years in prison, a fine, or both.
The new law only applies to cats and dogs. However, the legislation does allow it to be extended to other companion animals in the future if there is evidence that the number of thefts of a species is significant or increasing.
The change in the law has been welcomed by animal welfare organisations, including Dogs Trust and Cats Protection.
Paula Boyden, veterinary director at Dogs Trust, said: “We are delighted to see the Pet Abduction Act come into force, and that it recognises the emotional bond between dog and owner.
“For years, Dogs Trust has called for harsher penalties to deter those who profit from this despicable crime and to tackle the issue of pet theft here in the UK. ”
Annabel Berdy, senior advocacy and government relations officer for Cats Protection, added: “By recording it as a specific crime, we will now be able to identify the animals and breeds most at risk, and the areas where pets are being targeted.
“The underground trade in stolen pets has been allowed to flourish for too long, and finally this new law will help us begin to stamp it out once and for all.”
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