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Theft of 'designer dogs' triggers fear of pet-stealing ring
Animal rights campaigners are worried a pet-stealing ring is operating in London after two "designer" dogs were snatched by burglars.
- Evening Standard
- Published: 23:58 January 6, 2009
London: Animal rights campaigners are worried a pet-stealing ring is operating in London after two "designer" dogs were snatched by burglars.
The miniature pinschers, worth £650 (Dh3,489) each, were stolen on Boxing Day while their owner was out.
The thieves left a laptop, flatscreen television and Christmas presents untouched.
The male dog, named Enzo, was found four days later on a doorstep in Debden, Essex, 16km from home in Woodford Green, covered in scratches, with a cigarette burn.
His owner, Danielle Ott, believes the thieves threw him out when they discovered he was neutered.
Ott, a 23-year-old estate agent, said: "We're worried sick that Minx was stolen to order for breeding or to be sold on.
"We've put up around 1,000 posters across Essex and called every vet's surgery in the country to see if she has been handed in."
The charity DogLost says that dog thefts in London are increasing dramatically, with animals traded in pubs for between £30 and £50.
Increase
Founder Jayne Hayes said they receive reports that at least two dogs are stolen per week.
"Burglaries like this are on the increase. Most thefts are opportunist but there are a few gangs operating, who often attack owners at knifepoint in a park.
"The most popular type to steal are Staffordshire bull terriers because they are seen as a status symbol and can be sold no-questions-asked in the pub."
The thieves smashed down Ott's reinforced door while she was celebrating at a family Boxing Day dinner.
-Evening Standard
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