Officials said there has been a surge in stolen dogs in eastern North Carolina.
A home security camera recently caught a thief pulling up in a truck and stealing a shih tzu from someone’s walkway.
According to officials, the five most commonly stolen breeds are the Yorkshire terrier, the pomeranian, the Boston terrier and the French bulldog. Many dogs are stolen to breed puppies that are then put up for sale.
Experts said there are ways that owners can make their dogs less attractive to thieves.
“Make sure you spay or neuter your animals as soon as it’s possible because an animal that cannot be bred isn’t as valuable to a thief who wants your animal for bad reasons,” Shafonda Davis with the Animal Protection Society of Durham said. “Also make sure you get that microchip on and that you also keep the tag on.”
While it may seem obvious, experts said owners should also make sure that their dog is on a leash during walks.
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