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Home secretary pledges to introduce tougher pet theft measures
According to charity DogLost, reports of pet theft have increased by 170 per cent.

Government 'in talks' to curb recent rise in thefts across UK.

The Kennel Club has welcomed a commitment from the home secretary, Priti Patel to introduce stricter penalties for pet theft.

In an interview with LBC Radio, Ms Patel said she was in talks about upgrading pet theft to a more serious offence, in light of the recent rise in estimated thefts resulting from an increased demand for pets during lockdown.

The charity DogLost, recently revealed that reports of pet theft have increased by 170 per cent in the last year, from 172 dogs in 2019 to 465 in 2020, and the police are urging owners to take extra precautions to protect their pets.

Head of public affairs at The Kennel Club Dr Ed Hayes said: “We’re delighted that the Home Secretary has recognised the devastating effects of pet theft and the need for reform, especially in the current climate where demand for dogs is sky-high and criminals are cashing in.

“Currently the theft of a dog is treated no more seriously than the theft of a mobile phone, despite the utter heartbreak it causes, making it a low-risk crime as well as a profitable one.

“We have always been in favour of tougher sentencing and stronger penalties for pet theft and especially in the current climate, we would urge the Government to take swift action, recognising the emotional value of pets and impact on their owners’ lives and increasing penalties accordingly.”

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.