Celebs including Ricky Gervais are supporting a campaign to stop the dog theft crisis in the UK.
Dogs and their owners are coming together this weekend for the world’s largest online ‘DogZoom’ rally to raise awareness about pet theft.
Other stars backing the event include David Walliams, Sara Cox and Clare Balding.
The rally, organised by Liz Webster with Stolen And Missing Pets Alliance and Doglost, will kick off Pet Theft Awareness Week to highlight the spiralling dog theft crisis in the hope the Government will act to protect pets.
Animal lover Gervais, who has recorded a special message for the rally, says: “Sunday March 14 is Dog Theft Awareness Day and dogs really need your help."
Event organiser Liz says: “ Boris Johnson promised to solve Britain’s dog theft epidemic back in 2007 but nothing has changed.
“However, he has acted to protect statues in the Sentencing Reform Bill – and yet there’s nothing for our beloved pets.
“This heartbreaking crisis requires leadership to ensure Parliament works together urgently to ensure our pets and families are safe.”
Dr Daniel Allen, Animal Geographer at Keele University, has penned three successful Government petitions leading to two Pet Theft Reform debates in Parliament.
He says: “People have such a strong emotional bond with their pets - they are family. Despite this, the law treats stolen dogs in the same way as inanimate objects; only 1% of dog theft crimes end with a prosecution; and sentences are generally small fines.
“Dog theft has a devastating impact on families and is a gateway to animal cruelty.
"The risk of small fines will not stop dog thefts, and certainly will not stop organised crime.
“Pet Theft Reform will give courts access to appropriate custodial sentences to act as a deterrent, provide punishment, and protect the public.”
Victims of dog theft will also share their stories, along with advice from experts.
- Tickets are available here or you can catch up after the event on Sunday at www.facebook.com/DogZoomUK
