THE AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB & AKC REUNITE OFFER TIPS TO KEEP YOUR PET SAFE WITH PET THEFT ON THE RISE

NEW YORK, Aug. 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Pet theft is constantly on the rise, so it's important to stay vigilant with your pet at all times. Leaving your dog unattended is never a good idea, and the cost of losing a family member is devastating. Staying alert is key, whether you're home or out walking your dog. Pet thefts have risen 40% since 2021, so it is increasingly important to take precautions to keep your pet safe. The American Kennel Club and AKC Reunite are here to give you tips on keeping your pets safe from thieves.

• Walk close. When you're out on walks with your dog, keep them on the leash and in-sight at all times. This will reduce the likelihood of them wandering off or catching the attention of someone with the intent to steal.
   
• Never leave your dog unattended in your yard. Whether your yard is in your front or backyard, leaving them outside by themselves makes them an easy target for thieves. Especially if your yard is visible from the street, they become an easy target if alone.
   
• Avoid isolated routes. Especially early in the morning or late at night, avoid routes with few people and buildings if possible. If there are others around, your pet is less likely to be stolen, or in the case that they are, there are more likely witnesses.
   
• Be wary of what information you give out. It's fairly normal for strangers to approach you and admire your dog on walks, but giving out too much information about your dog can also put them at risk. Information like how much your dog cost, or details about where you live are not things you should share.
   
• Vary your route. Walking the same routes with your dog every day might seem like a great idea, but it's also a great way for someone looking to steal your dog to make themselves aware of your routine and where you go. Varying your walking route makes it harder for thieves to find you and your dog.
   
• Don't tie your dog outside a store. Leaving your dog tied up outside of a store unattended is extremely dangerous, even if you can see them from the window. It only takes moments for your attention to be elsewhere and someone to untie them and take them along. If you need to go in stores, go to dog-friendly establishments or leave your dog at home.
   
• Don't leave your dog in the car. Similarly to leaving them outside, leaving your dog in your car unattended is not only dangerous for the dog, but also can prompt thieves to break in, or steal your vehicle.
   
• Be diligent. In the event that your pet is lost, post recent photos of your pet everywhere you can: social media, community pages, put up signs, etc. Make sure to also contact local shelters and vets so that if your dog does turn up, or someone tries to bring them in as their own, they can recognize your stolen dog.
   
• Protect your dog with microchip identification. Collars and tags are important, but can be easily removed. Make sure your pet is microchipped with a permanent ID. For more information on microchipping, go to https://www.akcreunite.org.
   
• Always report to the police. Many don't realize that reporting this theft to the police can make a huge difference, but it is a crime. If your pet is stolen, make sure to alert authorities so that they can also be on the lookout and even apprehend the person who stole them. In the event that your dog is stolen, also report this to your microchip company.
   
• Update microchip contact information. Make sure your pet's microchip is up-to-date in case your pet is ever stolen, as well as their collar tags. Keep AKC Reunite's number, 800-252-7894, in your phone in case of emergency or if your pet is found.

For more information about responsible dog ownership, visit www.akc.org and www.akcreunite.org.

SOURCE American Kennel Club