MORE TH>N Pet Insurance has released the results of its Pet Theft Census, which looked into the prevalence of pet theft in the UK.

The research shows that in 2012, 833 dogs and 83 cats were reported stolen to the police. That trend has continued into 2013, with 722 dogs and 62 cats reported stolen by the end of October.

MORE TH>N says the average value of a stolen cat or dog is £344.86, which would mean that pets worth £678,000 have been stolen since the start of 2012.

However, according to the survey of 4865 cat and dog owners, 37% of cat and dog thefts in the last 12 months were never actually reported to the police, so the value of stolen pets is likely far greater.

Most stolen breeds of dog in Britain Most stolen breeds of cat in Britain
1. Staffordshire Bull Terrier (15%) 1. Siamese (38%)
2. Labrador (11%) 2. Persian (33%)
3. Spaniel (8%) 3. Ragdoll (11%)
4. German Shepherd (8%) 4. Maine Coon (10%)
5. Chihuahua 5. Bengal (6%)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

According to the survey, pets left in gardens were the most likely to be stolen (52%), followed by those left home alone (19%). Looking at dogs specifically,16% were stolen by brazen thieves while being walked by their owner. 7% were stolen when left tied up outside a shop and 5% were stolen from a car.

To help tackle the issue, MORE TH>N is giving away 500 free microchips for cats and dogs at five RSPCA centres across the UK. A hundred will be available in each centre on a first-come first-served basis. For more information visit www.facebook.com/morethan.

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vets.