February 21, 2025, 4:26 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
Dogs waiting tied up outside stores are a common sight, but it can be dangerous for the animals. The animal welfare foundation Vier Pfoten warns against theft and gives tips on how owners can better protect their four-legged friends.
Many dog owners tie up their four-legged friends just outside stores while they are shopping. But the Vier Pfoten (four paws) foundation strongly advises against this. Which animals are particularly at risk, how can you better protect your dog from theft, and what should you do in an emergency?
Risk of Dog Theft
Just a quick shopping trip while the dog is waiting outside, and then it happens: the animal is no longer there. Then the despair is great, and the probability of getting the animal back is, unfortunately, very low.
The animal welfare foundation Vier Pfoten, therefore, expressly warns against leaving dogs unattended in front of stores, in the car, or in easily accessible places. Even if access to the property is easily possible for strangers, this applies in principle, the foundation advises.
It is not uncommon for four-legged friends left on a lead outside stores to be stolen. Small and trusting dogs are particularly at risk. The risk is considerable, as criminals specifically look for animals that are easy to steal. Even leashes or locks advertised as theft-proof do not offer reliable protection, according to Vier Pfoten. “Anyone who wants to steal an animal will find a way, for example, by simply removing the collar.”
Alternative: Training to Stay Alone
It is, therefore, preferable to keep the pet at home where it’s safe. However, this cannot be done from one day to the next, but it must be well planned. For this reason, Vier Pfoten also recommends training your dog to be comfortable staying home alone for several hours. During this time, you can complete shopping and other errands. This approach allows owners to run errands without subjecting their pets to unnecessary risks.
Microchipping and Registration Increase Chances of Recovery
If a dog is nevertheless stolen or disappears, an implanted microchip can help. To improve the chances of finding your pet if the worst comes to the worst, Vier Pfoten recommends having a microchip implanted at the vet. This measure also makes sense for cats. The cost is between 30 and 50 euros.
However, the chip is useless if the number is not stored in an animal register. You can register your animals in the Dantenbank at Tasso or the Findefix register of the German Animal Welfare Association. Both registers are free of charge.
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Immediate Measures in the Event of Suspected Dog Theft
Four Paws advises that if you suspect your dog has been stolen, immediate action is crucial. You should promptly contact the police, inquire with passers-by if they have witnessed anything, and reach out to local animal shelters and veterinary clinics. Additionally, distributing flyers with a photo and description in the area can help gather tips from the community.
With material from dpa