Owners of small dogs and cats are being warned to be vigilant over pet thefts following a spate of attempts in recent weeks.
A number of dogs and cats have been targeted or have gone missing in the Liverpool area, amidst concern that they are being used as ‘bait’ for illegal dog fighting.
A Widnes police spokesperson told the Liverpool Echo that they were keen to hear from anyone who may have been followed while out dog-walking, or who experienced anyone attempting to steal their pet.
The warning came after a woman reported that men had tried to take her French bulldog and small shih tzu from her while out on a walk. Another woman in her 20s fought off a gang of would be dog-nappers in June.
Warnings have also been issued on the Facebook page of the Cheshire and Merseyside League Against Cruel Sports, saying that a van was going around collecting up cats and that dog walkers were also being targeted.
A statement on the page said: “Please be vigilant and don’t venture out alone at night with your dog, if at all possible.
“Dog fighting gangs will steal small dogs and cats to use for bait.”
