UK to crack down on dognappers with new pet abduction offence

Thieves will face tougher penalties under legislation unveiled by government after surge in crimes

Dognappers will face tougher penalties under government plans to introduce a criminal offence of pet abduction.

Pet theft is currently prosecuted under the Theft Act and is subsequently treated as loss of property to the owner, which for years campaigners have been saying fails to recognise the emotional distress caused by the crime.