This petition was submitted during the 2017-2019 parliament
Rejected petition Support tougher sentencing for dog theft
More than 60 dogs are stolen every week in England and Wales, but less than 5% of dog theft cases lead to convictions.
Pets are sentient beings, but pet theft is seen as no different to the theft of an inanimate object.
Stronger pet theft legislation with tougher sentencing is needed.
More details
Under the Theft Act 1968, pets are regarded as property, however, most pets including dogs, cats and horses experience emotional distress when stolen.
Despite the emotional impact of the crime, minimum sentences may only include community service or a small fine.
Enforcement of existing laws do not currently act as a deterrent or even fit the crime itself. Please support reclassification of pet theft and tougher sentencing.
For more information http://www.stolenandmissingpetsalliance.co.uk/
This petition was rejected
Why was this petition rejected?
It’s not clear what the petition is asking the UK Government or Parliament to do.
Petitions need to call on the Government or Parliament to take a specific action.
We understand that you'd like to see changes to the law on dog theft, but we're not sure exactly what you'd like the Government or Parliament to do.
You could start a new petition explaining clearly what you would like the Government or Parliament to do.
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