People in Milton Keynes and surrounding areas are advised to be vigilant after a house in a nearby town was potentially 'marked' for dog theft.
Thrapston Town Council, based in Northamptonshire, warned residents that people could be scouting the area for dogs and allegedly marking the exterior of houses.
One resident contacted Thrapston Town Council claiming that they had "2 x D" written on their fence post. "The police have advised them it's likely to have been written by people intending to try and steal the two dogs," said the council.
And in a separate incident, far closer to home, on Tuesday (6/10) a Border Collie is said to have been stolen by someone in a white van from a residential farm down the A421 between Bletchley and Buckingham.
During the peak of the coronavirus pandemic, there was a drastic rise in the number of people buying dogs/puppies. This, in turn, also led to an increased number of dog thefts being reported - up 65% compared to last year (DogLost.co.uk).
So dog owners must be vigilant to protect their pets. People are advised to check their fences, gates, and the outside of their homes regularly for any writing or unusual items including cable ties and paint marks.
Those who spot something suspicious should take photographic evidence and report it to Thames Valley Police by calling 101 or submitting a report online.
Once you have reported it to the police, try to remove the markers or writing as best as you can. Owners should keep windows and doors shut and secure the property while not at home, and dogs should not be left outside unattended at any point.
