A new law that will see those convicted of stealing pets in the north facing up to five years in prison has been welcomed ahead of it coming into force on Saturday.
The Pet Abduction Act will make stealing a cat or dog a criminal offence in the north and in England after receiving royal assent earlier in May, as one of the very last pieces of legislation to be pushed through Westminster on the final day of parliament.
It will apply in the north following a motion by Stormont environment and agriculture minister Andrew Muir that was backed by MLAs.
In May, Mr Muir revealed that a Freedom of Information request showed the PSNI recorded an average of 35 dog thefts each year.
Campaigners have welcomed the new legislation, as under previous law stealing a beloved family pet could carry the same punishment as stealing an item such as a mobile phone.
Stephen Kennedy, trustee and manager at the Mid-Antrim Animal Sanctuary, told the Irish News that the theft of a pet can have “devastating” consequences.
“This law change is a big step forward in recognising that for victims of this crime, it’s not just like having a spade stolen from your garden shed,” he said.
“Pets aren’t just ‘owned’ - they are sentient beings who are part of peoples’ families, and for a great many, including older people, they are often companions who provide a vital source of comfort, sometimes their only source of comfort.
“To steal a pet is a despicable act, which can have a devastating impact on families or those living alone with their cats or dogs. I’m glad to see the law now recognises this and will see a more appropriate punishment for those convicted of this crime.
