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Yahoo
a day ago
- Yahoo
Dog thefts: what really happened during the COVID pandemic
Dog theft can be a devastating crime. During the COVID pandemic, newspapers suggested there was an epidemic of 'dognapping' in the UK. If you have a dog, the reports may have alarmed you at a time when there were already many reasons to feel afraid. There are mixed views on whether or not lockdown triggered an increase in dog ownership. Animal welfare charity Battersea attributed a 53% increase in dog adoption to lockdown, and online pet adoption service Pets4Homes said in their 2022 report that demand for puppies rose 104% at the peak of lockdown in May 2020. But animal charity PDSA said its survey data pointed to a gradual increase in dog ownership since 2011 rather than a dramatic surge during lockdown. However, we do know lockdown saw inflated prices for dogs, with some fashionable breeds going for £9,000. In terms of criminal activity, social distancing restrictions seemed to lead to a decline in some forms of crime, including shoplifting and burglary. But many media outlets reported the number of dog thefts had increased up to 250% during the pandemic. Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK's latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences. We wanted to explore if the data supported claims of a dognapping epidemic and whether patterns in dog theft could suggest ways to help reduce it. Our recent study found new insights into dog theft patterns and showed the situation was more complicated than it seemed at first glance. Under the Theft Act 1968, dog theft is not a specific offence. It comes under other theft offences, such as burglary or theft from a person. This means police records on dog theft were not included in crime statistics. The only way to access such information is through Freedom of Information (FOI) requests to individual police forces. There are 45 territorial and three special police forces in the UK, and each has its own reporting and recording practices. Although police FOI data for dog theft must be approached with caution, it is useful. Previous studies exploring police FOI data found an upward trend in recorded dog thefts in England and Wales: rising nearly 20% from 2015 (1,545) to 2018 (1,849) for 41 police forces combined; and up 3.5% year on year from 2019 (1,452) to 2020 (1,504) for 33 police forces. DogLost, a UK online community for reuniting lost and stolen dogs with their owners, reported a 170% increase in stolen dogs (with Crime Reference Numbers) registered on their website in 2020 (465), compared to 2019 (172). This figure was widely quoted as a national increase 'since lockdown started' by the media. The 250% increase figure first quoted in December 2020 was actually a comparison of two seven-month periods (January-July 2019 and 2020) for only one police force. Patterns and trends Our study found the data for the period covering the COVID pandemic is also incomplete. Data was provided by 32 forces (71%) for 2020, by 27 forces (60%) for 2021, and 23 forces (51%) for 2022. Patterns and trends do, however, emerge. Between 2020 and 2022, the available data shows a 3.7% rise in dog thefts in the UK, from 1,573 to 1,631. When making adjustments for the number of police forces providing data (which decreased over the period), the estimated national figures suggest there may have been more significant rise of up to 44.2%. While we cannot assume that the forces who supplied data are representative of all 45 regional forces, if this were the case, it would equate to 2,212 recorded dog thefts in 2020, 2,645 in 2021, and 3,191 in 2022. There was a lot of variation between different areas. For example, Cambridgeshire, Gwent and Northumbria police forces experienced increases of 36%, 49% and 80% respectively in the number of recorded dog thefts between 2020 and 2021. Monthly analysis of data from regional police forces and DogLost, show that the number of reports of stolen dogs started to go up when the UK entered its first national lockdown and again during part of the third lockdown. But the average number of police-recorded dog thefts was actually slightly higher outside of lockdown periods than during them between 2020 and 2022. However, in contrast with police trends, DogLost data shows a 65.2% drop in dogs reported stolen on DogLost's website in 2022 compared to 2020. Lower DogLost numbers may reflect limited visibility or presence of their networks, the use of alternative lost and stolen dog services, or reluctance to share personal details online due to scams targeting dog theft victims. Our study found that, overall, there probably was an increase in dog theft from 2020 to 2022, following already identified increases in the preceding years. This rise was probably driven by a combination of opportunity (more dogs, higher value) and situational factors (accessibility, dogs unattended in gardens while owners were inside). Our evidence does not support the notion of a widespread epidemic as portrayed by the media. However, increased media interest probably amplified awareness of the issue, and influenced the creation of the Pet Theft Taskforce, a UK government initiative set up in May 2021 to investigate and tackle dog thefts. New research appears to confirm the idea that dog abduction has significant welfare effects on both dogs and their owners. We also know that few dog thefts are successfully resolved, with under a quarter of stolen dogs likely to be returned and around 1%-5% of reported dog thefts result in someone being charged. However, there is potential good news. Our ongoing research suggests the number of police-recorded dog thefts decreased slightly in 2023, and again in 2024. This is supported by research from pet insurer Direct Line, which has estimated a 21% decrease in the number of stolen dogs from 2,290 in 2023 to 1,808 in 2024 in the UK. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Daniel Allen is founder of Pet Theft Reform and patron of the Stolen and Missing Pets Alliance (Sampa). Melanie Flynn is a member of the Research Advisory Committee of the Vegan Society (UK). John Walliss does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
STV News
15-07-2025
- Health
- STV News
Couple banned from keeping dogs after starving pet Husky
An Aberdeen couple has been banned from keeping dogs after they starved a Husky in their care. Deborah Duncan and Reece Gordon appeared at Peterhead Sheriff Court on Monday where they were found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. The pair failed to meet the nutritional needs for Kyro, a two-year-old male, grey Husky-type dog, whose extreme emaciation was described by a vet as 'clearly visible and avoidable'. Duncan brought Kyro into the PDSA after he had not eaten for several days and had not taken on any liquids for four. He was referred to Vets Now Veterinary Practice in Aberdeen for post-operative care following the removal of a foreign body from his stomach. Veterinary staff were alarmed by the dog's condition, describing him as emaciated with visible ribs, spine, and pelvic bones. SSPCA Veterinary staff were alarmed by the dog's condition. An inspector from the Scottish SPCA said: 'We uplifted Kyro into our care due to concerns about his condition and to ensure he received appropriate aftercare. The severity of his emaciation indicated that his nutritional needs had not been met for weeks, if not longer. 'The vet had found that Kyro's condition could not be explained solely by the recent illness or the stomach obstruction, and that his lack of muscle mass suggested long-term malnutrition. In their opinion, the dog should have weighed at least 22kg in a healthy state. Kyro, however, had clearly been deteriorating for several weeks, if not months. 'The extreme thinness of Kyro was easily identifiable by any reasonable person. It is simply unacceptable that veterinary care was not sought earlier, particularly given the owner's admission that the dog had not eaten in over a week.' Both Duncan and Gordon were banned from keeping dogs for 36 months, ordered to carry out 96 hours of unpaid community work, and Reece Gordon was also placed under a 12-month supervision order. The Scottish SPCA inspector added: 'Kyro should have been brought to a vet a lot sooner. He was visibly underweight, weak, and had clearly been suffering. His owners' delay in seeking veterinary help has led to prolonged and unnecessary suffering. Kryo has since been adopted and now living the life he deserves.' Get all the latest news from around the country Follow STV News Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
Daily Record
15-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Husky 'had not eaten for a week' as cruel Scots couple banned from keeping dogs
"His owners' delay in seeking veterinary help has led to prolonged and unnecessary suffering." A cruel Scots couple have been banned from keeping dogs after starving their pet husky until the animal's ribs and spine showed through it's fur. Deborah Duncan and Reece Gordon, from Aberdeen, were convicted after their pet Kyro, a two-year-old male, grey Husky-type dog, was discovered having not had food in more than a week. He was taken into the care of the Scottish SPCA after undergoing an operation, where the extent of the neglect was discovered. Inspectors say he is now 'living the life he deserves' after being adopted. The pair appeared at Peterhead Sheriff Court on Monday, July 14, where they were found guilty. In addition to the ban, they were also ordered to carry out unpaid work in the community. Duncan had brought Kyro into the PDSA in Aberdeen after he had not eaten for over a week, and not had anything to drink for four days. He had a foreign body removed from his stomach, and was referred to the city's Vets Now Veterinary Practice for post-operative care. Upon assessment, veterinary staff were alarmed by his condition, describing him as emaciated with visible ribs, spine, and pelvic bones. Heartbreaking images showed the state he had deteriorated into as a result of not being given proper nutrition. An inspector from the Scottish SPCA said: 'We uplifted Kyro into our care due to concerns about his condition and to ensure he received appropriate aftercare. The severity of his emaciation indicated that his nutritional needs had not been met for weeks, if not longer. 'The vet had found that Kyro's condition could not be explained solely by the recent illness or the stomach obstruction, and that his lack of muscle mass suggested long-term malnutrition. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! "In their opinion, the dog should have weighed at least 22kg in a healthy state. Kyro, however, had clearly been deteriorating for several weeks, if not months. 'The extreme thinness of Kyro was easily identifiable by any reasonable person. It is simply unacceptable that veterinary care was not sought earlier, particularly given the owner's admission that the dog had not eaten in over a week.' Following their conviction, Duncan and Gordon were banned from keeping dogs for 36 months, ordered to carry out 96 hours of unpaid community work, and Reece Gordon was also placed under a 12-month supervision order. The Scottish SPCA inspector added: 'Kyro should have been brought to a vet a lot sooner. He was visibly underweight, weak, and had clearly been suffering. His owners' delay in seeking veterinary help has led to prolonged and unnecessary suffering. Kyro has since been adopted and now living the life he deserves.'
The Sun
07-07-2025
- Climate
- The Sun
From snacks to your own swimming pool – five budget hacks to keep your dog cool
AS temperatures rise, your four-legged friend might struggle in the heat. Keep your dog cool with these paw-fect budget solutions to ensure tails are wagging, not flagging. POOL PARTY: Every dog deserves their own private pool for summer. Pick up a children's paddling pool from B&M for £8 as it's the perfect depth for most breeds to splash about in and cool down. Or for smaller dogs, a washing-up bowl works just as well. Remember to only fill with a few inches of cool water and watch them splash about. N'ICE IDEA: Skip overpriced pet shop treats and whip up your own healthy, cooling snacks. According to the PDSA, The vet charity for pets in need ( you can mash bananas and berries with water and add the mixture to an empty ice cube tray. Freeze and then give to your pets as a tasty, cold, lickable treat, while always keeping an eye on them to prevent choking hazards. Another idea is to freeze your pet's water bowl or add ice cubes to their water in hot weather. MAT'S THE WAY TO DO IT: A cooling mat is a great on-the-go option for dogs. Sainsbury's has a small breeds cooling mat for £5, or get a slightly larger one at Tesco for £7. Or fill a freezer bag with ice cubes, then wrap it in a thin tea-towel or towel. Place this under your pet's bed or blanket for an instant cooling effect that will last for hours. SHADE BRIGADE: Protect your pet from direct sunlight by hanging old bedsheets between fences or over your washing line to create a shade in your garden. Simple five-second rule to see if it's too hot to walk your dog and how to tell the four-legged friend has had a heatstroke, expert reveals If their bed is near a window, try moving it to a shady spot for the summer. A cardboard box on its side is also a way to create a shady 'den' for pets indoors. SPRAY AWAY: Dogs can get sunburn too, so if you're going to be out in the sun today, pick up a pet-safe solution. A cooling sun spray such as the Petkin Doggy Sunmist Spray SPF15 is a great option for £6 at 7 Deal of day 7 CATCH up on your fave shows in high definition. The Sharp 4K Ultra HD Roku Smart TV 50in was £299, now £249 at B&M. Check for stock at your local store. SAVE: £50 Cheap treat 7 WHIP up Angel Delight for tonight's pudding. Sachets are usually £1.05, but Co-op members can get them for 70p each. Top swap 7 MAKE like the A-listers watching Wimbledon in a pair of Ralph Lauren Polo sunglasses, £218, John Lewis or get a pair of Matalan Clubmaster sunnies, £4.80. Shop and save 7 FOR seriously fluttery lashes, try Ardell Wispies, on offer at Previously £5.99, now £4.49. Hot right now THE Bella Italia £5 pasta deal has been extended until July 11. Dine out and claim the code to get yours at PLAY NOW TO WIN £200 7 JOIN thousands of readers taking part in The Sun Raffle. Every month we're giving away £100 to 250 lucky readers - whether you're saving up or just in need of some extra cash, The Sun could have you covered. Every Sun Savers code entered equals one Raffle ticket.
Leader Live
06-07-2025
- Climate
- Leader Live
Garden expert shares £1 coin hack to help grass seeds grow
Despite the warmer, sunnier days arriving in the UK recently, some areas are now experiencing cooler temperatures. Lawn experts are reminding gardeners who have overseeded their grass that warmth is needed for the seed to germinate. Ben Agnew, grass expert at Lawnsmith, said: 'Grass seed needs a minimum temperature of 10C to be able to grow with the optimal temperature being more like 12 - 15C. And the chillier nights mean gardeners will see a much slower response from their grass seed. 'This is nothing to panic about, patience is key when it comes to growing grass from seed. And these lower temperatures just mean the germination process will be slower.' If you've not seen results yet, don't worry, as Lawnsmith's expert insists gardeners aren't necessarily doing something wrong. Ben explained: 'Anyone starting a new lawn or filling in patches might be feeling frustrated with the lack of progress in their lawns. Especially if they've spent time and energy taking care of seedlings. 'And thankfully, there is nothing extra that they need to do except keep going with their usual lawn treatment. Keep the seedbed moist, but not pooling water. 'Make sure seeds are at the correct depth to stay protected from the elements and maintain good seed-to-soil contact. 'I recommend sowing your seeds at a depth of approximately three £1 coins stacked on top of each other. This will provide a comforting environment for the seedlings to germinate and grow. 'The worst thing you can do is panic and throw more grass seed down, as this could cause a situation where you lay too much seed and there is competition, leading to poor growth.' Try to keep footfall to a minimum to reduce the disruption to your developing lawn. Different seeds have different germination speeds, so growers should pay attention to the information provided by the seed manufacturer. 'It can depend on the type of seed used, but typically germination can take five to 15 days,' Ben said. He added: 'Grass seeds like ryegrass or fescue often germinate quickly compared to other varieties like Bermuda that can take longer and require higher soil temperatures.' Recommended reading: RSPCA shares how to get rid of rats in your home or garden without harming them Expert shares 90p tea hack that improves your garden's health and deters pests Which neighbour is responsible for paying for garden fence repairs? How to check If you have a dog, it's worth noting that grass seeds can get stuck in their paws and other places. The most common places that grass seeds cause trouble are in the eyes, between the toes and around the ears, but they can find themselves anywhere and work their way under the skin, PDSA warns. Using the right equipment, it might be possible for a vet to pull the grass seed out of where it has got stuck. However, grass seeds that work their way into the skin are harder to find and don't often show up on X-rays. They can also start travelling around, causing inflammation, infection and abscesses.
