OWNERS of designer dogs across Worcestershire are being urged to make sure they get their pets microchipped after an increase in thefts, nationally.
Worcestershire’s Dog Warden Pip Singleton is inundated with calls from people whose pets have been pinched, with those who have been recovered, being found in different parts of the country.
Pip said: “There’s stories nationally about dogs being taken from gardens, cars, on walks when they are off the leads, nearly every day and unless you have had your pets microchipped, there is little or no hope of being reunited with them.”
Earlier this month Pip warned about the dangers of buying from private sellers rather than adopting dogs from rescues, and the dogs being poorly or having health issues. Often these are not microchipped either or could be – but are registered with a different owner – their real owner!
She said: “With lots of people buying pets, particularly during lockdown as they may be working from home or furloughed, the rescue shelters are empty and people are paying thousands of pounds for cross-breeds via private sales.
“As well as checking veterinary records, ask for the micro-chip registration and double check to make sure the dog isn’t stolen.
“If the dog isn’t chipped then get it sorted straight away for peace of mind that they aren’t stolen and to make them less attractive to be stolen.”
For advice on microchipping please call the team on 01905 822799.
