Nottinghamshire Police is sharing helpful tips and reminders for local residents on how to keep their dogs safe from harm.

The guidance is being released by the force's Crime Prevention team to mark pet theft awareness week, which begins today (Monday 13 March) and runs until Sunday 21 March.

For many people across Nottinghamshire and throughout the country, their furry friends are a member of the family and act as companions.

The force's guidance includes reminding owners to: never leave their dog unattended, even if it is just to enter a shop or building for a few minutes; make sure their property, garden, and surrounding areas are secure, anyone who has low fencing can make it harder to climb by adding a trellis.

Owners are also reminded to always keep gates and entrances locked and ensure kennels are not visible from the street; make sure that whenever walking their dog in public it is wearing a collar with a tag attached. Tags should include the owner's name and contact number but mustn't include the dog's name.

Finally, residents are advised to refrain from putting up signs that advertise the whereabouts of their pets to strangers; and to remember that it is a legal requirement for dogs to be microchipped.

The government has recently introduced a new law that can see thieves imprisoned for up to five years when committing a dog theft offence.

Tom Ford, a Nottinghamshire Police Crime Prevention Officer, said: "As the owner of two dogs, I understand first-hand why people are so concerned about them being stolen.

"We know that for many people dogs are part of the family, which is why we want to highlight issues regarding dog safety, using awareness week to share some helpful tips on how to keep your dog safe from harm.

"When you bring your dog home they become a member of the family, a friend to your children, and can act as a companionship for the elderly or those who live alone, we understand how heart-breaking it can be if they are stolen from you.

"We want to remind dog owners that whilst sharing your new puppy with friends and followers on social media can feel innocent, try to avoid posting pictures that give away clues as to your home address, enticing opportunistic thieves looking to steal your pride and joy.

"If you have concerns surrounding dog theft, follow these tips and if you believe your dog has been stolen; make sure you report it to us by calling 101, making an online report, or in an emergency always call 999."

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