A WOMAN from Wandsworth has launched a dog theft prevention group following a concerning spike in pet crimes in the area.

The group aims to unite local pet owners to discuss and share ideas on how to keep their four-legged friends safe.

Pet theft has become increasingly prevalent in the UK over lockdown, and in many cases more violent.

Last month, a retired police officer and dog trainer had his Sprocker Spaniel stolen in a violent mugging in Wimbledon.

Founder of Dog Theft Prevention Wandsworth, Nicky Byrnes, said:

“Members of our community are now genuinely scared to walk their dogs. What was once a joyful experience has now resulted to carrying self-defence sprays and personal alarms, for the fear of being targeted by dognapers. It's truly heart-breaking.”

The platform offers support and advice about dog theft prevention, including recommendations for attacker identifier sprays and body cameras.

Members can also access a WhatsApp chat to post alerts and information relating to local dog thefts or suspicious activity.

She added: “Of course we wish this page didn't have to exist, but we will make every effort to protect our dogs. We deserve to feel safe in our parks, dogs and humans alike.”

The group is an outlet for the non-profit organisation DogHorn, a network providing a rapid response strategy for the prevention and recovery of stolen dogs.

Originally piloted in Northumberland, Dog Horn is now active across the UK.

You can join Dog Theft Prevention Wandsworth here.