‘Dog-Napping’ Laws Proposed
An alarming rise in “dog-nappings” is prompting legislators to propose laws to toughen penalties for those who steal pets, according to the American Kennel Club (New York).
Pet theft has been increasing since 2008, according to the AKC. Through November 2009, it had tracked more than 115 stolen pets via incidents reported by news media and customers. In 2008, the AKC tracked a total of 71 thefts.
A bill introduced in Texas last year would have made it a felony to steal a pet, punishable by up to two years in jail.
The AKC also noted a New York assemblyman’s recent vow to introduce legislation that would make the theft of a companion animal a felony offense carrying a penalty of up to four years in jail.
In addition, California and Delaware tried to regulate roadside pet sales as a way to combat the trafficking of stolen pets, the organization said.
The FBI’s National Crime Information Center, which tracks stolen property, currently lists 200 stolen dogs. [February 2010 PET AGE]
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