Dog Thefts Catch APD's Attention

Missing dogs A rash of rip-offs targeting pet owners has the attention of Austin police. They're seeing an increase in dogs being taken from their owners.

On Wednesday evening a woman walks her dog in North Austin, perhaps unaware police say a cruel crime is happening on this side of town. Last year only 7 people reported stolen dogs. This year there are 11, most from the north side leaving owners outraged. "Dogs are like kids you know to people so (this) is messed up," says Austin dog owner Mauricao Tomaselli.

You don't have to look hard to see flyers about missing dogs. Word about the thefts are spreading quickly. "I've heard there's an increase especially with certain types of breeds. I really do try and keep an eye on him," says Austin dog owner Angela So.


Police say predators are pouncing on precious pets, but they also say it's not a band of bandits but opportunistic thieves. They are separate cases with all different kinds of breeds of all not one particular breed that is being stolen," says Austin Senior Officer Venesa Aguinaga.

Vets like Allison say a simple micro-chip can give you pet protection. "If she is ever stolen you can say oh really this is her micro-chip number and it's registered to me," says Dr. Allison Healy.

Here are the other top tips for protecting your pet:

Have a recent picture you can show people.

Never let the dog run free without you, or leave it alone in cars or at the store.

Finally keep an eye on the dog at night or on vacation.

CBS 42 Reporter: Gregg Watson
Email: gewatson@keyetv. com

TIPS What To Do If Your Pet Is Ever Lost Or Stolen

1) Begin the search for your pet immediately. Don't wait a few days hoping he'll return on his own. Begin looking for your dog by circling around your block, then gradually widen the circle to include neighboring areas. Be sure to have a friend or family member wait outside your home in case your dog returns to your building doorstep. Check all local parks, dog runs and any of your dog's favorite places throughout town.

2) Keep your telephone manned 24 hours a day in case someone calls about your pet. Hopefully your pet's collar has ID tags attached which will make it easier for someone finding your pet to call you.

3) Put together a clear, bold, easy-to-read "lost dog" flyer. The two- line, bold headline should read: REWARD: LOST DOG (or cat)."The flyer should also include the following information: your pet's general physical description and temperament; the date and location your pet was lost; two or more telephone numbers where people should call of they find your pet. While your flyer should offer a reward for the safe return of your pet, it should not specify the amount of the reward.

4) Distribute "Lost Pet" flyers to friends, neighborhood residents, doormen, and businesses. Post flyers on all neighborhood bulletin boards. Flyers should also be handed out and posted throughout the neighborhood where your pet was lost if other than your own.

5) Contact all local animal shelters, humane societies, veterinary hospitals, and animal control officers immediately.

Also. contact your local police, sheriffs, pet supply stores, groomers, boarding kennels, professional dog walkers, dog runs, and dog training schools.

After calling these places and people to alert them to your lost pet, mail them "Lost and Found" flyers containing your pet's description and photo. After that, visit these facilities as often as possible, and/or make daily follow up calls to each facility.

-Source: American Dog Trainers Network
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