A Private Members’ Bill introduced by Anna Firth MP, to create offences of dog abduction and cat abduction and to confer a power to make corresponding provision relating to the abduction of other animals commonly kept as pets.
In January 2024 the Bill had taken a significant step
forward with the announcement of government backing for new legislation.
The Pet Abduction Bill introduces new criminal offences in
relation to the taking or detaining of a dog from the lawful control of any
person. Anyone found guilty of stealing a pet will face up to five years in
prison, a fine, or both.
There is currently no legislation aimed at addressing pet
theft specifically. Animals fall under the definition of property in
legislation, and as such pet theft is dealt with under the Theft Act 1968. Campaigners have called for stronger
legislation that reflects the emotional value of pets to their owners and the
distress associated with their theft.
Introduced into the House of Commons on 6th December
2023.
1st reading – was on 6th December 2023
2nd reading – was on 19th January 2024
Committee Stage – 31st January 2024
The Bill is now due to have its report stage and third
reading on Friday 23 February.
Amendments can be made to the Bill at Report Stage.
Amendments to be considered are selected by the Speaker.
Evidence from the Pet Theft Taskforce suggests that around
2,000 dog theft and over 400 cat theft crimes were reported to police in 2020,
causing considerable distress for owners and their pets alike. With an
estimated 28% of UK adults owning a dog and 24% owning a cat, pet theft is a
major concern to the public.
