Dog Flipping, A Sad New Trend
Dog flipping is the term used for a new trend, people stealing dogs from yards or taking tied-out dogs. Then they selling them, most often back to the original owners. The dog flippers use Internet services such as Craig's list.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), dog thefts are on the rise, increasing 27.8% between January and May compared to a year ago. For the most part unsupervised dogs are swiped. Though there are even reports of "dog sitters" who become "dog takers." In Chicago one woman was even reportedly accosted for her dog, though that type of direct theft appears rare.
The so-called flippers make out with anywhere from a lowly $50 to a few thousand dollars per dog, depending on if the dog is a pure bred pup (some breeds are worth more), and the reward dollars (some people can't afford or won't pay out a hefty reward).
There are three really effective ways to deter this recent and alarming trend:
- Since the overwhelming majority of dogs are swiped when unsupervised, simply don't allow dogs to languish in yards alone. And don't tie-up dogs at the local Starbucks or retail store. If you know aren't able to bring the dog inside, don't walk there with your dog in the first place.
- While proving dog theft is challenging (more on that to come), it's easy to prove the dog belonged to you all along. The flippers remove dog collars, and - of course - deny they've stolen the dog. They don't suggest they've found a lost dog. Instead, they tend to give the dog a new identity. The only way to prove the dog was yours in the first place is to microchip. If you've already microchipped your dog, make sure the information in the data base of your microchip provider (your phone number, email address and street address) are up to date.
- Make sure to check that your pet sitter check is legit.
Of course, 'dog-napping' is against the law, but proving that is difficult. If you tie out the dog in front of a coffee shop or leave the dog in the yard - who's to say the dog didn't somehow get loose from and walk off, or get out of the yard? The flippers not only obviously deny theft, but contend it's been their dog all along. Even IF theft could be proven, by law the penalty may be equivalent to stealing a bicycle or making off with an extra shovel stored in your yard since pets are technically deemed property by law.
Avoiding the opportunity is best.
There's more general information, via the HomeAgain Pet Recovery Service.
A Facebook page has been organized to enhance awareness.
