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New figures show dog theft is on the rise
The Staffordshire bull terrier was the most stolen breed in 2018.
Staffies, crossbreeds and chihuahuas most commonly-stolen breeds

The number of dogs stolen in the UK has risen for the fourth year in a row, according to new research.

Figures published by Direct Line Pet Insurance show there were 1,959 dogs stolen in 2018 - 80 more than in the previous year and the equivalent of around five every day.

The Staffordshire bull terrier was the most stolen breed in 2018, with 88 reported thefts over the year. This was followed by crossbreeds like Labradoodles and puggles (53) and Chihuahuas (52).

Breeds that have fallen in popularity amongst thieves include huskies, which have seen an 88 per cent reduction in thefts. Springer spaniels and rottweilers have also seen a decrease, with just five and one reported theft respectively.

“It is heart-breaking to see there are still so many dogs stolen each year and the numbers are continuing to rise. Dogs are a huge part of the family, so it causes real distress and trauma when they are stolen,” said Eva Sandstra-Bennett, head of pet insurance at Direct Line.

“Unfortunately, the popularity of designer dog breeds and flat faced dogs means they are highly desirable for thieves, as they are easily identifiable and can be sold on for thousands of pounds. Owners of these breeds should be particularly vigilant and aware of situations that make it easier for thieves. This can include leaving them locked in cars, tied up outside a shop or allowing them off the lead out of sight.”

The Metropolitan Police Service recorded the highest number of dog thefts in 2018 (304) - a 30 per cent increase on 2017. West Yorkshire Police (179) reported the second highest number of stolen dogs while Greater Manchester Police (161) was third.

The figures also show that the number of stolen dogs being returned to their owners is falling. Just 17 per cent of stolen dogs were returned to their owners in 2018, which is 25 per cent less than in 2017.

Eva continued: “Unfortunately, while the number of dogs stolen is rising, the number returned is also falling; meaning owners are increasingly unlikely to be reunited with their beloved pet. If the worst does happen and a dog is stolen, owners should report it to the police immediately and start spreading the word among their local community.

“Online communities are also vital, as is sharing photos of the pet on social media. Owners should also ensure that their pet is microchipped, and the contact details are up to date so if they are taken to a vet’s surgery, the vet will have the right ownership details.”

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Vets to run marathon for World Animal Protection

News Story 1
 Two recently graduated veterinary surgeons will be running the London Marathon in April to raise money for the charity World Animal Protection.

Alex Bartlett and Maeve O'Neill plan to run the race together if they are given the same start times.

Dr O'Neill said: "You're always limited in what you can do to help animals, so it is nice to raise money for a charity that helps animals around the world."

Dr Bartlett added: "I have never run a marathon before and am excited to run my first one for such a good cause!"

Both Dr Bartlett and Dr O'Neill have fundraising pages online. 

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News Shorts
BSAVA releases new Guide to Procedures

The British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) has published a new edition of its Guide to Procedures for Small Animal Practice.

It has added four new procedures; cystostomy tube placement, endotracheal intubation, point-of-care ultrasound and wet-to-dry dressings.

BSAVA says that it is an essential step-by-step guide to diagnostic and therapeutic procedures performed in practice. The textbook includes new images and illustrations, as well as high-definition videos for use prior to procedures.

Nick Bexfield and Julia Riggs, editors of the new edition, said: "We have built upon the success of the previous editions by responding to the feedback received from the BSAVA readership, and hope this new guide helps to further increase the confidence and accuracy with which these procedures are performed."

Print copies are available in the BSAVA store, with a digital version in the BSAVA library.