Pet thefts in Lancashire have increased by eight per cent over the last four years, new research suggests.

The study, conducted by security experts at ADT, looked at the number of pet thefts between 2019 and 2022 to determine the areas in which pets are increasingly in danger.

The study also looked at pet thefts per 10,000 people to reveal the areas in which pets are in the most danger.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, with people forced to stay at home due to lockdown, and people taking up walking and changing work patterns, there was an increase in pet ownership, however with this it also created a higher risk of animals being stolen,

Lancashire sits fifth in the list of police forces, after pet thefts across the county rose from 156 in 2019 to 168 in 2022.

However, the years in between saw a more dramatic rise with 181 pet thefts reported in 2020 and a massive 205 in 2021, meaning there was a notable drop off in 2022.

The increase in reported pet thefts in Lancashire demonstrates an eight percent rise in the crime across the four years.

The West Midlands has experienced the most dramatic rise in pet thefts, as evidenced by a huge 547 per cent increase over the four years.

Starting from 19 cases in 2019, the number rose sharply to 123 in 2022.

As a predominantly urban area with a high population, the density of pet owners could offer more opportunities for pet thieves in the West Midlands.

Other areas with large rises were Greater London, where thefts rose by 174 per cent, Northamptonshire with 55 per cent, and Leicestershire with 22 per cent.

In July last year, a family in Blackburn spoke of their heartache after two of their dogs were stolen from their home.

The American Bullies, named Tyson and Chanelle, were stolen in the middle of the night from an address on Notre Dame Gardens.

Zubair Iqbal said thanks to an appeal, one dog, Tyson, had been recovered but pregnant Chanelle was still missing. 

READ MORE: Blackburn family's ‘heartache’ as American Bully dogs stolen from home

In October last year, a man was sentenced after he broke into a home in Accrington and stole a French Bulldog.

Cameron Schofield, 24, of Church Street, Dukinfield, entered the victim's home in Spencer Street, Accrington, and stole the items early in the morning of Saturday, April 24, 2021.

READ MORE: Burnley man armed with sword stole French Bulldog puppy

Michele Bennett, general manager at ADT UK subscriber, said: “Pet theft in the UK has become increasingly concerning, mainly as pets are often considered valuable family members.

“The rise in pet theft can be attributed to several factors, including the increased demand for specific breeds, which can command high prices on the black market.

“This demand has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw a surge in pet ownership as people sought companionship during lockdowns.

“However, the government has taken steps to address these concerns. For instance, introducing compulsory microchipping for dogs has been a significant step in deterring theft and aiding in recovering stolen pets.

“Moreover, there have been discussions about updating legislation to reflect the severity and impact of pet theft, potentially leading to harsher sentences for those convicted.

“Public awareness and education are also crucial in combating pet theft. Pet owners are advised to be vigilant, especially in areas where pet theft is prevalent.

“Simple measures like not leaving pets unattended in public places, ensuring gardens are secure, and being cautious about sharing information on social media can help reduce the theft risk.”

Some tips on keeping your pet safe:

  • Use home security systems: Installing a pet-friendly alarm can significantly deter pet theft. Systems with CCTV cameras can monitor your property, and the presence of such security measures can dissuade potential thieves.
  • Smart doorbells and cameras: Smart doorbells and cameras allow you to monitor who approaches your home. These devices often have motion sensors and can send alerts to your phone, providing an extra layer of security.
  • GPS trackers: Consider equipping your pet with a GPS tracker. This can be particularly useful for pets that spend time outdoors, allowing you to monitor their location in real time.
  • Training and awareness: Train your pet to respond to commands and not to go with strangers. This training can be a crucial factor in preventing pet theft.
  • Secure outdoor spaces: Ensure your garden or any outdoor space where your pet spends time is secure. This includes checking fences for gaps and installing locks on gates.
  • Regular supervision: Never leave your pet unattended in public spaces. For example, if you need to leave your pet outside a shop, securing them within sight and returning promptly is better.
  • Vetted pet sitters: Use vetted pet sitters or kennels when you're away.
  • Social media caution: Be cautious about the amount of information you share about your pet on social media, as this can sometimes attract the attention of thieves.
  • Neighbourhood watch: Participate in or form a neighbourhood watch program. Being part of a community that looks out for each other can effectively prevent pet theft.
  • Update pet information: Keep your pet’s microchip information current, and ensure they wear a collar with an ID tag. This can aid in the recovery if your pet is lost or stolen.

By combining these practical steps with some trusted security products, pet owners can significantly reduce the risk of pet theft and ensure the safety of their beloved pets.