POLICE in Dorset are backing a campaign to tackle dog theft - and are urging members of the public to complete a survey to determine what action should be taken going forward.

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner Martyn Underhill is supporting a national survey designed to understand public perception of dog theft, enforcement and the prosecution of offenders.

Demand for dogs as pets has increased during the coronavirus pandemic, with the cost of some puppies currently as high as £3,000, making them a valuable commodity to criminals.

Mr Underhill said: "I know many dog lovers regard their pet as a friend or family member, not merely as property, and this survey looks into whether that should be recognised in law.

"It will help policy makers understand the experiences of dog owners who have had their pets stolen and assess the level of support for creating harsher punishments.

"I urge anyone who cares about this issue to complete the survey.”

According to Dog Lost, the UK's largest lost and found dog service, it is estimated that thefts have risen by 250 per cent, with criminal gangs involved.

The survey closes on Friday, March 12.

For more on this, visit: www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/dogtheft