Dog owners warned after theft reported

Last year saw a spate of alleged thefts of dogs, with the apparent targets Jack Russells and Spaniel type breeds.

Gardai have issued a warning to all pet owner to be vigilant following the theft of a dog last week.

‘Lucky’ was stolen from her home in the from its home in the Cootehill area last Thursday night, March 25.

Fortunately, gardai have confirmed, her owners were immediately alerted to the theft and ‘Lucky’ was released shortly afterwards and made her way home.

“‘Lucky’ on this occasion was very lucky,” say gardai in a post on social media looking to highlight the theft and the potential threat of others in the region.

Last year saw a spate of alleged thefts of dogs, with the apparent targets Jack Russells and Spaniel type breeds.

At the time Cavan SPCA volunteer Laura Reilly said the charity had seen first hand the increase in this type of crime. “All dogs are at risk of being stolen but recently Jack Russells, Springer Spaniels and Cocker Spaniels seem to be the target. They will walk on to someone's property to take a dog.”

Of the latest incident, gardai asked all dog owners to please make sure their dog is kept in secure accommodation, and to also consider installing CCTV for additional security. “Have your dog microchipped and take photographs of your pet. Always be vigilant for callers to your home and report suspicious activity to your local Garda Station,” they add.