MP Dan Norris, alongside his cocker spaniel Angel, is asking pet owners to take a few simple steps to protect their animals from would-be thieves as part of Pet Theft Awareness week (March 14 - 21).

Six dogs a day are reported missing in the UK, according to recent data from insurer Direct Line.

Mr Norris MP (Labour, North East Somerset and Hanham) highlights a few tips as promoted by the organisers of Pet Theft Awareness Week:

Out and about

  • Thieves sometimes grab dogs while they are on walks. So while you are walking your dog, concentrate fully, staying aware of what is going on around you, and of any potential risks. This includes avoiding distractions from mobile phones and music devices.
  • Don’t leave your dog unattended while you shop.

At home

  • Smart home alarm systems allow you to monitor from your mobile phone what is happening at home when you are out. Nine per cent of dogs stolen are through breaking and entering.
  • Consider installing CCTV to watch over your garden. Figures indicate some 52 per cent of stolen dogs are taken from a garden. Do not assume your garden is secure.
  • Consider downloading and using personal safety apps such as ‘Hollie Guard, and precise location apps like ‘What3words’.
  • If your dog is a persistent wanderer, think about investing in a GPS collar.

Other tips

  • It is a legal requirement to have your dog microchipped. If you move home do inform your microchip registration database as soon as you move. If you are in doubt about which you are registered with, then use: http://www.check-a-chip.co.uk/
  • Local authorities have a duty to hold stray dogs for seven days so missing pets can be reunited with their owners. If the dog is not claimed after that period, the authority can find the dog a new home (usually through a rehoming organisation) or euthanise them. Don’t assume that because your dog is microchipped it will be scanned if it goes missing.
  • Have a note of your dog’s microchip number in your phone together with an up to date photo of your dog.
  • Make a list of all the important telephone numbers you will need should your dog go missing. (eg police, database company, dog warden, vet, etc.)

Dan Norris says: “For all animal owners, the thought of losing a pet sends a shudder, and the idea that they could be stolen by thieves is horrifying.

“Yet the stats show over a thousand dogs and cats are reported missing every month.

“So in Pet Theft Awareness Week, Angel and I are begging owners to paws for thought, and recall a few simple steps you can take to protect your pet from thieves.

“And when this week-long campaign ends, don’t let your vigilance tail off.”

More advice to help prevent dog theft – as well as suggested steps if your animal is taken - are published on the Pet Theft Awareness campaign website.