Just want to talk about #dogtheft as there is a very #seriousproblem right now. . It #saddens me to think of the #heartache and #trauma a family of a #stolendog goes through. And everyday I read posts on Facebook about #missingdogs and its happening so much. . So here are some #tips on #stayingsafe with your #dogs .... . I'm always bleating on about dog theft, but it really is extremely rife and scary at the moment and in our area!! Lots of reports of attempted thefts and stolen dogs in past few weeks 😥 They are desperate and brazen. It really is a very uneasy time for dog owners. Tips: Never routine walk, always vary locations and times. Never allow children to walk dogs alone. Try not to walk alone if possible. Keep a tight grip of lead at all times. Always be mentally prepared for a potential incident. Carry potential safety items, rape alarm, whistle, torch, mobile, big stick! Keep focused at all times, stay off your phone. Ensure you carry fully charged mobile with emergency numbers easily readily accessible. Stick to well lit areas. For the love of God stop leaving them tied up alone outside shops/schools, free for the taking. Secure gardens/padlocks/CCTV. Never leave in garden/driveways/unattended. Never routine toilet breaks. Try to discourage barking indoors, especially with door knocking/visitors/passers by. Never advertise you have dogs in the house or car i.e gimmick posters/labels. Never share new puppy litter news. Check for markings, outside and around your property, zip ties/chalk markings. Never personalise dogs items, postcode and phone number is adequate. Never engage information if chatting with strangers, dogs name/age/mannerisms etc. Help elderly people understand and maybe walk their dog for them. If off lead, regularly recall, always keep dogs in sight. Never think it wont happen to you 😥 Always remember, your dog is simply pound signs to thieves regardless of breed, looks, mannerisms or age!! Keep them safe. https://www.instagram.com/p/CLwTySEFY4o/?igshid=1bzzuamiexvq5