Law that could see ‘pet-nappers’ get up to five years in prison to be introduced this weekend

The Pet Abduction Act will make dog and cat abduction a specific offence.

The law will also make provisions against the abduction of other animals commonly kept as pets, such as ferrets for example.

Under the legislation, new powers will lead to tougher sentencing of individuals found guilty of pet abduction in England and Northern Ireland.

It will also give legal recognition to cats and dogs in their own right, rather than as property.

In May, Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir Muir revealed that a Freedom of Information request showed the PSNI recorded an average of 35 dog thefts each year.

Mr Muir also then announced he would lay a motion to allow the UK-wide legislation to apply here, as animal welfare is a devolved matter, and after laying a motion in the Assembly to allow for the extension of the new laws to Northern Ireland. the plans are now coming to fruition.

Nora Smith, chief executive of the Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (USPCA) said: “As a nation of pet-lovers, this new law recognises the emotional impact the theft of a pet can have and brings the perpetrators to justice in a way that reflects the gravity of the crime.

“Pets are not merely items in our lives, they are our family members, they are our best friends. The abduction of a pet is distressing and causes emotional harm not only to the owner but to the pet as well. As such, the crime of abducting a pet is being treated more seriously and comes with harsher consequences”.

“Animal welfare is increasingly a key concern amongst the public, who look to Government to take the lead to improve standards.

“The legislation is a welcome step forward in advancing animal welfare, and we welcome the fact that anyone found guilty will face up to five years in prison, a fine, or both.”

The UK Government promised to make the abduction of dogs a criminal offence in 2021, but no such legislation was passed.

Measures were later included in the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill, which was dropped by ministers in May 2023, prompting a backlash from campaigners.

Under the new bill, those found guilty of the two new offences of dog abduction and cat abduction face up to 12 months’ imprisonment on summary conviction in Northern Ireland, or up to five years’ imprisonment on conviction on indictment.