CALL US: 01328 857921
Working with dogs can be a most rewarding career choice which brings immense joy and companionship. While all posh pooches and scruffy mutts are treasured members of the family - some breeds come with hefty price tags, making them attractive to thieves.
As the festive season draws close, many dog owners will be in need of your dog sitting or walking services while they visit family or escape abroad to warmer or snowier climates.
But December is not all about festive cheer. Sadly, Christmas is also the season of burglary fear.
In the UK, certain breeds command high prices due to their popularity, rarity, breeding costs or Insta-appeal. Protecting dogs in your care from thieves, especially high-value breeds, is crucial for dog business owners, as dog theft is a growing concern in the UK.
How to prevent theft of dogs in your care
Whether you're a dog walker, trainer, groomer, breeder or own boarding kennels, there are several proactive steps you can take to reduce the risk of theft.
Ensure all dogs in your care are microchipped as required by law in the UK. Keep client registration details updated, including customer address and contact information. A microchip is not only a legal requirement but also a vital tool for reuniting dogs and owners if it's stolen or lost while in your care.
Thieves often target dogs in public areas. Never leave a dog tied up outside shops or unattended in a car, as this creates an easy opportunity for theft. When walking dogs, remain vigilant, especially in isolated areas. Avoid sharing your walking routes or habits on social media, as thieves can use this information to track you.
Many dogs are stolen from homes or gardens. To prevent this, ensure your property is well-secured with high fences, locked gates, and motion-sensor lights. Consider installing CCTV cameras or doorbell cameras, which can deter thieves and provide evidence in the event of a theft.
GPS collars allow you to track a dog’s location in real time, which can be invaluable if they are stolen or wander off. While they don’t prevent theft, they increase the chances of recovery. If your customers don’t provide them, perhaps invest in some of your own as invaluable business tools. It will also give clients reassurance about your canine-care credentials!
While it’s tempting to share photos of dogs in your care on social media as a marketing tool, be mindful of revealing too much information. Avoid posting your location or detailing your routines or dog walking routes online. Thieves often use social media to identify targets.
Maintain up-to-date photos of any dogs in your care. These should include clear shots of distinguishing features, markings, or scars, which can help police and community groups identify them if stolen.
What to do if a dog is stolen
If a dog is stolen, stay calm but act quickly:
Taking these proactive measures to secure dogs in your care can significantly reduce the risk of theft - or ensure their safe return. By staying vigilant and prepared, you can enjoy peace of mind while sitting, breeding, walking or grooming all furry friends in your care.
From a rescued, free Fox Terrier to a prize-winning pedigree Pointer, you can’t put a price tag on a family pet. They may be invaluable to thieves but to their owners, they are priceless and irreplaceable.
It’s a dog’s world!
Working with dogs comes with great joy but also great responsibility. Specialist pet business insurance is an essential element of that responsibility.
Our friendly team of insurance professionals has over 50 years’ experience understanding the ups and downs, the ins and outs of running dog businesses.
Whether you have your own premises or offer mobile services, we understand what cover you need and what you don’t.
As a team of dog lovers, we are committed to finding the right insurance for your canine company. So, whilst you’re walking, training, washing, cutting or clipping your furry customers, let us look after your insurance.
