by Anne
We consider our furry friends as full-fledged members of our family. Yet, some ill-intentioned individuals see them more as commodities and part of a highly lucrative market. Despite the penalties enforced by law, dog thefts have been on the rise in France since the beginning of the health crisis.
Although stealing an animal can result in up to three years in prison and a €45,000 fine, the black market for dog sales is now the third-largest illegal trade in the world. For dog thieves, the reward seems worth the risk: depending on the breed and age, dogs can fetch between €1,500 and €3,500, or even up to €10,000. The most sought-after breeds include Pomeranians, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, Chihuahuas, and French Bulldogs. Some dogs are resold, while others meet even more tragic fates, being used for breeding in illegal puppy mills.
Thieves no longer hesitate to break into apartments, houses, and gardens or even snatch dogs in the street by cutting their leash or attacking their owners. “There are even contracts placed on certain dogs identified in advance, carried out by specialists in abduction,” says the spokesperson for the BPA (Animal Protection Brigade), a unit of volunteer police and gendarmes mobilized to tackle the rise in thefts.
Caution is crucial. Several steps can help minimize the risk of your dog being stolen:
Here’s what to do right away:
There are additional steps to increase your chances of finding your furry friend:
It’s not about avoiding walks or worrying every time you leave your pet at home. By staying vigilant and following these simple guidelines, you can protect your dog while enjoying life together.
Let’s hope the animal welfare law, already in effect since 2024, will start to show its impact soon, especially in regulating online pet sales more strictly and reversing this troubling trend!
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