Owners warned after heartless thieves snatch pets

South Norfolk Council has issued a warning to dog owners after a spate of pet thefts in the district.

Pet owners in Swardeston, Costessey, Ellingham and Pulham have recently reported their dogs have been stolen from back gardens.

The crimes came to light when the Council was notified that five dogs had been snatched last week - two in Costessey, two in Ellingham and one in Swardeston. It then emerged that in the previous week, two dogs were stolen in the Pulham area, between Long Stratton and Diss.

South Norfolk Dog Warden Rachel Ives said:

"The dogs were in back gardens, which were broken into. In one case, a seven foot high hedge was partly removed and the dog kennel cut through with wire cutters.

"This is very traumatic for individuals and families, especially those with young children who become very attached to their pets. It's a cruel thing to do, and we appeal to whoever has taken these much-loved pets to return them immediately.

"My message to the thieves is: if you have any heart at all, contact me on 01508 533739 and I can arrange to come and collect the animals and ensure they are safely returned to their owners."

In the Costessey case, two black laboradors were taken, but one had been "chipped". Dog chipping involves inserting a unique identifying microchip painlessly under the animal's skin, meaning it can be easily traced if it gets lost or stolen.

Rachel said:

"The thieves must have quickly realised their mistake, and abandoned that dog in the street. It was later found, and returned to its owner. The other dog, which had not been chipped, is still missing.

"If owners everywhere ever needed a more painful illustration of why it is important to have your pet chipped, this is one. It's better to be safe than sorry."

To get your dog chipped, contact Rachel on 01508 533739.

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