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Young toy breeds most at risk of theft

Data analysis reveals most at risk dogs

Young toy breeds are the most likely type of dog to be stolen, a Loughborough criminologist has concluded after analysing data from an online forum of lost dogs.

Dr Louise Grove from Loughborough University analysed data from doglost.co.uk, including 457 reports of dog theft from September 2011 to August 2012.

According to Dr Grove's findings, around three quarters of the dogs stolen during this period were pedigrees and nearly half were small or toy breeds.

Half of the stolen dogs were described as puppies or young adults, though preliminary findings indicate the sex of the dog makes no difference to its chances of being stolen.

Of the 457 dogs reported stolen, just over half (54 per cent) were reunited with their owners.

Dr Grove said: "Whilst some dogs may be stolen to order, it is clear some dog theft is opportune. Owners can do a lot to minimise the chances of their dogs being taken."

During the period studied by Dr Grove, the garden was found to be the most likely place for theft to occur, with 49 per cent of the dogs being taken there.

After the garden, the most common places for dog theft were found to be the home, kennel, vehicle, farm and outside a shop.

Concluding, Dr Grove said: “Dogs remain attractive to thieves because in many cases they can be sold on quickly and are not easily traced. Compulsory microchipping of all dogs would play a huge role in reducing dog theft.”

Findings from the research were featured on BBC Radio 5 Live Investigates on Sunday, December 22.

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Free bloat webinar planned for dog owners

News Story 1
 The Kennel Club is inviting dog owners to attend a free webinar on gastric dilation-volvulus syndrome, also known as bloat.

Part of its health webinar series, the session will take place from 7pm to 8pm on 12 November. It will explore what scientific research has revealed about causes, symptoms, breed susceptibilities, diagnostic approaches, and treatment options, as well as looking at what future research could uncover.

The talk will be hosted by Mark Dunning, professor of small animal internal medicine at the University of Nottingham, and will include a 30-minute Q&A session.

Places can be booked here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
FIVP to represent independent practices at London Vet Show

The Federation of Independent Veterinary Practices (FIVP) will be at stand (S05) at this year's London Vet Show.

The not-for-profit organisation will be explaining how its expertise and resources can help independent practices to thrive in a competitive industry. It will also share how it has been representing independent practices in the ongoing CMA investigation.

On Thursday, FIVP member Steve Carter will be available to discuss how veterinary surgeons and nurses can pursue practice ownership.

FIVP will also be offering independent practices three months of free membership if they sign up at the stand.

Rita Dingwall, FIVP business development manager, said: "It's a wonderful opportunity to discuss our representation in the CMA enquiry and connect with like-minded individuals who share our passion for independent practice."