How to Prevent Pet Theft

Man's best friend can also be man's big profit. Each year up to 2 million pets are stolen. These animals are sold for medical research, animal fighting, cult rituals, breeding stock and fur. There are steps that concerned owners can take to prevent pet theft and keep their pets safe.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Tag your pet. Your pet can wear a collar with his license, be micro chipped or tattooed for proper identification in the event of pet theft.
2. Do not leave your pet unattended. Keep him inside when you're not home to prevent theft, make sure you have a secured yard when he needs to go out, don't allow your pet to roam freely in the neighborhood and don't leave your pet tied up outside when you go into a store.
3. Keep gates locked when your pet is outside in a fenced yard.
4. Put your pet on a leash when you take her outside or for a walk.
5. Watch for unfamiliar people or vehicles in your neighborhood and know where your pet is.
6. Educate neighbors and friends about the problem of pet theft and how to prevent it so they can keep their pets safe and help keep a watchful eye on the neighborhood.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not place advertisements for "free to a good home." Charge an adoption fee of at least $50 so pet thieves and traders will not be able to make a profit on the animal; make every effort to find out all you can about the adoption home.