SASKATOON – Household pets hold a special place in their owners’ home, family and hearts. This love makes hearing social media rumors of pet thefts terrifying for pet owners.
“This is a big concern for me,” says Amanda, administrator of a Facebook group generating an online conversation. “I don’t want anybody’s animal going missing.”
READ MORE: Attempted Saskatoon dog thefts prompt social media buzz
Pet owners fears have led to some heartfelt reactions on the social media.
“I’m waiting for these guys,” said one poster. Another group member posted: “I will not stand idle and watch them take my dog. I will go after them.”
The admin of the page is looking to “diffuse the situation” when they come across comments like these, and steer the conversation to be more about responsible pet ownership.
There are some steps pet owners can take to keep their pet safe:
- keep eyes on pets at all times;
- have a well enclosed dog run with a top if possible;
- check yard perimeters for any loose boards or signs of suspicious activities;
- keep all gates locked; and
- report any suspicious activity to authorities.
“Some dogs are Houdini’s,” says Marv Le Nabat at the Saskatoon SPCA, “they can climb eight foot fences.”
Watch below: Pit bull climbing tree
When a pet does go missing, the SPCA recommends getting the word out there as quickly as possible:
- contact the Saskatoon SPCA or animal control to open a file;
- check with neighbours and look around the area;
- make posters with a recent photo, which can also be shared online; and
- send the information to local vets.
On top of social media, those who come across a lost pet are also encouraged to call the SPCA with the pet’s information as soon as possible to help reunite the animal with its forever home.
Le Nabat says that a lot of people volunteer to foster an animal they find, and give the SPCA their number to give out with a lost report.
“Because we are usually pretty full with animals, the public has been great,” said Le Nabat.
When someone is taking care of a lost pet, the SPCA will usually provide supplies needed until the owner is found.
READ MORE: Social media spreading the word about Saskatoon dog thefts
If foul play is suspected, Alyson Edwards with Saskatoon Police Service hopes the public will call them with first-hand information before reporting it on social media sites.
“Be vigilant, make sure you are watching. It goes for any form of criminal activity, not just dog theft. If you feel like there is someone in your neighbourhood, report it,” said Edwards.
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