There is no stereotype of a pet thief, they may be either sex and any age or appearance. Similarly, their vehicles may be vans, cars, old or new. Daytime thefts often involve vans with blanked out windows. The vehicles crawl slowly around an area , a careful watch being kept of streets and gardens. Sometimes the theft of a dog or cat might take place on the sighting or the thief may return at a quieter time, having ascertained that there are numerous cats and dogs that could be stolen.
HOW DO THEY GET AWAY WITH IT
Ignorance is their ally - generally the public is not aware of what is happening. What they must do is note the registration number of the vehicle its colour make and general description . If the thieves speak, note their accent ; take details of their clothing , height, age and hairstyle. If a member of the public suspects that a pet theft has taken place then this information should be given immediately to the police and Petwatch Australia , who will ensure that all information of this most serious nature shall be investigated fully .
WHERE ARE THEY STOLEN
Cats and dogs are stolen from areas of high pet population . Areas near to major roads and highways are targets as are large housing estates; nevertheless, isolated dwellings and country towns are also at risk.
WHEN ARE THEY STOLEN
Night is still a very popular time - thieves strike from dusk onwards and at dawn when cats and dogs are hungry. So it is important cats and small dogs are kept indoors after dark . It is also important that larger pets kept outdoors after dark should have a very secure and well locked yard .A chain and collar is also very important to have ; don't forget these things , they are to your pets benefit . Many thefts , however are taking place in the quieter parts of the day when few people are about.
HOW ARE THEY STOLEN
Many are easily stolen - friendly pets present no problem to a thief. The timid , nervous or unfriendly pet is not as easily stolen , However , the thieves use food as bait, fishing nets, wire lassos or more seriously , rabbit traps snares and possum traps.Most thieves steal by deception - they reply to many " Free to Good Home " and "Found" advertisements .If the enquirer is evasive , be suspicious, check addresses and telephone numbers note the registration number of their vehicle. Petwatch recommends that the animal is taken to its new home and even better still visit the address before handing the animal over . If someone claims to be an RSPCA officer , Council officer or Ranger, ask for identification.
SO HOW CAN WE PROTECT THEM
1. During the day watch your pet as you would a child.
2. Keep them indoors indoors after dark.
3. Feed your pet at bedtime so that they are more likely to sleep and not stray
4. Restrict your pet to the safest entrance in the house.
5. Consider building runs for both cats and dogs , so they can be outside but safe.
6. Neutered pets tend to wander less. (This is a decision you have to make)
7. Alert neighbours to the dangers of pet thefts - ask them to be vigilant in terms of suspicious people and vehicles.
8. Consider forming or joining a neighbourhood petwatch scheme.
9. Display warning posters in your area. (Available from Petwatch)
10.When advertising never say "Free to Good Homes", simply say " Good Homes Wanted" | 
