Pet Theft Awareness Day: Simple Ways to Keep Pets Safe
February 14th is best known for Valentine’s Day; flowers, love notes, and celebrating the people (and pets) we adore.
But it’s also Pet Theft Awareness Day, a reminder that protecting the pets we love isn’t just about affection… it’s about awareness.
Pet theft is not something most families want to think about, and thankfully, it isn’t something most will ever experience. But when it does happen, it’s often preventable.
The good news? A few simple habits can dramatically reduce risk and help keep pets safe, secure, and right where they belong: at home.
Why Would Someone Steal a Pet?
It’s hard to imagine, but pets may be taken for reasons like:
Resale or scams
Breeding
Impulse “someone was friendly so I grabbed them” situations
Personal disputes (roommates, ex-partners, acquaintances)
The pets most at risk are often the most approachable, friendly dogs, small breeds, or animals left unattended even briefly.
1. Never Leave Pets Unattended in Public
Many thefts happen in seconds, not hours.
To reduce risk:
Keep dogs leashed and close in public spaces
Never tie a dog outside a store “just for a minute”
Avoid leaving pets alone in front yards, even with fencing
Stay alert in busy parks or unfamiliar environments
Friendly pets don’t understand danger, they assume everyone is a friend.
2. Never Leave a Pet in a Vehicle
Even quick errands create risk.
Leaving a pet in a car can lead to:
Heat-related illness
Theft opportunity
Panic or escape attempts
If a pet is visible, it can become an easy target. It’s always safest to bring them with you or leave them secure at home.
3. Hire Trusted, Professional Pet-Care Providers
One of the most overlooked safety steps is who has access to your pet.
Unfortunately, there have been cases of individuals posing as pet sitters or dog walkers to gain access to animals.
Before hiring, ask:
Are they insured?
Have they completed a background check?
Do they have verified references?
Are they operating a legitimate, accountable business?
At Dogs On The Run, safety starts with trust, every match is personal, and every professional is carefully screened.
4. ID Tags Help, Microchips Help More
Collars and tags are essential, but they can be removed.
Microchips provide a permanent link back to the pet’s family if they are brought to a shelter or veterinary office.
Make sure:
Your pet is microchipped
The registration information is up to date
Your phone number and address are current
A chip only works if the information is accurate.
5. Keep Clear Ownership Records and Recent Photos
If something ever happens, documentation matters.
Keep:
Recent photos of you with your pet
Veterinary records
Adoption or purchase paperwork
These details can help establish ownership quickly if there is ever a dispute or confusion.
6. Be Thoughtful About Social Media Sharing
We all love sharing cute pet photos, but real-time location sharing can unintentionally create risk.
Avoid posting:
Your pet’s location in the moment
Routine walking routes
Visible street signs or home addresses
“Rare breed” or high-value signals
It’s always okay to share… just share smart.
7. Know What to Do Immediately If a Pet Is Taken
If you suspect a pet has been stolen, time matters.
Act quickly:
File a police report right away
Notify local animal control
Contact nearby shelters and veterinarians
Alert neighbors and local community groups
Report the pet as stolen through Pet FBI
Monitor online marketplaces where pets may be resold
Fast action increases the chances of reunion.
Awareness Is the Best Prevention
Pet theft is upsetting to think about, but prevention doesn’t require fear. It requires simple, consistent habits and trusted support.
Whether you’re a pet parent at home or out in the community, these steps help ensure your pet stays exactly where they belong:
safe, secure, and deeply loved.
If you ever have questions about safe care, trusted providers, or protective best practices, Dogs On The Run is here to help.
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Need a trusted professional in your home?
Dogs On The Run connects families with carefully screened pet care professionals; because peace of mind is part of great care.
