A disturbing new crime is emerging worldwide that should be concern to dog owners. Criminal gangs are engaged wide-scale dog theft. In the UK it has turned a lucrative but illicit industry. A theft the USA last week became global news as the dog walker pop singer Lady Gaga was shot the chest as thieves stole her two pet bulldogs. The UK is experiencing a sharp rise dog theft. Lockdowns due to coronavirus have led to a boom pet sales as many people look solace and companionship animals. Sales of what are being dubbed "pandemic puppies" have skyrocketed. Unscrupulous criminals are now stealing dogs, often attacking their owners, and selling the canines up to $9,000.
The police warned dog owners to take extreme care online and parks. People have been advised not to post pictures their pets social media. Police have also recommended people take their dogs a walk with a friend and not leave dogs unattended cars. The organisation DogLost said many people are buying dogs online asking diligent background questions. A Change.org petition said the punishment dog theft is the same as a stolen smartphone. It said: "Dognapping has almost the same effect a family as kidnapping, as pets are seen as family members. It is time the law reflected this the sentencing offenders."
