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'Low conviction rate' for dog thefts in Wales
cocker spaniel
According to DogLost, there is a 15 per cent annual rise in dog thefts across the UK.
FOI request reveals 3 per cent of cases result in charges

In the past five years, just 3 per cent of dog thefts in Wales have resulted in a prosecution, according to figures obtained by BBC News from three of the four Welsh police forces.

Figures acquired through a freedom of information (FOI) request show that between 2010 and February 2015, over 520 dogs were reported stolen but only 15 were charged.
  • South Wales Police dealt with 239 reported dog thefts, resulting in five people being charged.
  • North Wales Police had 172 reported thefts, with nine people charged.
  • Dyfed-Powys Police had 114 thefts and one person was charged.
  • Gwent Police had 38 dog thefts between 2012-14 but did not have information on how many people were charged.

According to the FOI statistics, working dogs such as lurchers and cocker spaniels, are the most common breeds stolen in Wales, alongside 'fashionable' breeds including Chihuahuas and French bulldogs.

The four police forces told BBC News that dog thefts are treated very seriously and further action will be taken if there is sufficient evidence. North Wales Police said compulsory microchipping of dogs, due to come into place in April next year, will help.

DogLost, a service which helps owners search for their missing dog, warns that thefts are on the rise. The group told BBC News it has seen a 15 per cent annual rise in crime across the UK.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.