Animal advocates in the United Kingdom are celebrating a new law that officially went into effect yesterday, making the theft of cats and the taking or withholding of dogs a criminal offense.
An Increasing Concern
Under the 2024 Pet Abduction Act, anyone found guilty of stealing a cat or dog could face up to five years in prison, along with potential fines, accoridng to Digi24.
Pet theft has become an increasing concern in the UK over recent years, particularly for dogs, which are the most commonly stolen pets. Research from Direct Line Pet Insurance revealed that 2,290 dogs were reported stolen in 2023, averaging six pets stolen each day.
Previously, pet theft was categorized as property theft, falling under the Theft Act of 1968. However, this classification often failed to acknowledge the emotional distress and trauma that pet owners face when their animals are stolen.
Pets are a Member of the Family
Paula Boyden, veterinary director at Dogs Trust, highlighted that the prior legal framework overlooked the fact that the abduction of a pet can be "stressful and heart-wrenching."
She also said that for most pet owners, their animals are considered family members, and being separated from them without knowledge of their whereabouts can be devastating. Until now, pet theft was treated similarly to the theft of a mobile phone or laptop, which did not reflect the emotional toll it takes on families.
For years, various groups have lobbied for stricter penalties for pet theft. They argue that the new law finally recognizes the emotional impact of such crimes and aims to target criminals who have previously operated with little consequence, profiting from the theft of beloved animals.
While the law specifically addresses dogs and cats, it also includes provisions for the theft of other animals typically kept as pets.
