In a significant move to address the growing issue of pet theft, the UK government has introduced the Pet Abduction Act 2024. Under this new law, anyone found guilty of stealing a cat or dog could face up to five years in prison and substantial fines. This legislation marks a departure from the previous legal framework, where pet theft was prosecuted under the Theft Act 1968

A Growing Concern

Pet abduction has become an increasingly alarming issue in the UK, particularly with dogs being the most targeted. Research indicates that in 2023 alone, approximately 2,290 dogs were reported stolen. The rising number of pet thefts has underscored the need for more stringent laws to protect the emotional bond between pets and their owners.

Recognising the Emotional Impact

One of the primary concerns with prosecuting pet theft under the Theft Act 1968 was that it treated pets as mere property, comparable to items like mobile phones or wallets. This approach failed to acknowledge the significant emotional distress caused to both the pet and its owner. The Pet Abduction Act 2024 aims to rectify this by recognising the unique and irreplaceable bond between pets and their owners.

What Comes Next?

As the Pet Abduction Act 2024 takes effect, it is anticipated that sentencing guidelines will be issued to help courts determine appropriate punishments for those convicted under this new law. These guidelines are expected to categorise offences and provide clear instructions on sentencing to ensure consistency across cases.

Implementation Considerations

While the new law is intended to impose harsher penalties for pet theft, some legal experts have raised concerns about its effectiveness. Notably, the maximum sentence under the Pet Abduction Act is less severe than the potential penalties under the Theft Act. This discrepancy has led to questions about whether the new legislation truly treats pet theft as a more serious crime.

Moreover, the Act specifically references dogs and cats, leaving uncertainty about how other types of pets will be protected under the law. This gap in the legislation could lead to calls for further amendments or additional laws to cover a broader range of animals.

How we can help

At TV Edwards, our dedicated team has been at the forefront of criminal defence work in London for over 50 years. We offer specialist legal advice across a full range of criminal defence cases. If you or someone you know requires legal representation under the Pet Abduction Act 2024 or any other criminal matter, please do not hesitate to contact us.
You can reach our specialist team by emailing enquiries@tvedwards.com or calling 020 3440 8000. We’re here to provide the expert support and guidance you need.

Disclaimer: The information on the TV Edwards website is for general information only and reflects the position at the date of publication.