Pet Theft Awareness Month

February is pet theft awareness month. Although pet theft for "designer" dogs is a common occurrence before the holidays in order to sell as gifts, there is also an uptick of pet thievery during the heart of winter. Make sure you stay outside with your dog while they go potty in the backyard. Don't let your cats wander outside during these cold temperatures. A kind stranger might not know your cat's routine and "steal" them out of kindness.

Pet thieves aren't always kindhearted strangers "rescuing" pets in bad temperatures. They may have nefarious reasons for stealing your best friend. Consider neutering/spaying your pet to discourage any wandering habits they may exhibit. Here is a list of many low-cost spay/neuter programs throughout the Northern Virginia areas.

Craigslist Scam Allows Thieves to Get Away With Selling Stolen Dogs