Stolen puppy reunited with owners
Posted Nov 30, 2012 06:23:31 AM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
A 12-week-old Boston Terrier puppy, stolen from a Timberlea home Wednesday, has been reunited with her owners.
RCMP say following media coverage of the theft, a Halifax Regional Police patrol officer received a tip from the public indicating where the puppy could be found.
Mounties say the puppy was located uharmed.
“Xiabao” was taken in a break-in on Wilbert Devoe Crescent in which thieves stole jewelry, in addition to the pet.
Annette Armitage with the Halifax Animal Rescue Coalition says pet thefts happen more often than many people think and are frequently crimes of opportunity when dogs are left alone in cars or backyards.
Armitage says sites like kijiji are a haven for those looking to sell stolen dogs, and while your stolen pet may not show up for sale, it’s puppies could.
“They’re worth so much money and they’re unaltered which makes great inventory for a backyard breeder,” said Armitage.
There are ways however pet owners can protect themselves.
“Number one is microchip or have some distinguishing feature on your dog…have something that you can identify your dog in the event it’s lost or stolen,” said Armitage.
If you do buy a dog from kijiji, Armitage says to be sure to get papers or vet records from the seller to ensure it’s not stolen.
