Ministers have announced the launch of a new Pet Theft Taskforce to investigate the recent reported rise in pet theft since the start of lockdown.
Various online platforms have reported a considerable rise in puppy and kitten prices over the course of the past year following more people deciding to buy or adopt a pet with Google searches for ‘buy a puppy’ increased by 166% in the months between March and August following the start of lockdown last year.
The new taskforce has been set up 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.
Winchester & Chandler’s Ford MP, Steve Brine, has been one MP pushing this agenda in Parliament after being contacted by many constituent and says; “This is a very welcome announcement and I know it will be welcomed by many of my constituents, who have been really concerned about the furry members of their families.
“As a dog owner myself, to Labrador Monty, I know first-hand the concerns pet owners have and I hope this announcement will come as a means to settle the nerves of first-time owners”
The taskforce will aim to report on the findings and publish its recommendations in the autumn this year. The full Terms of Reference for the Taskforce can be accessed online.
More Information
