In 2021, the world was stunned when Lady Gaga’s beloved dogs, Koji and Gustavo, were kidnapped in a harrowing incident that saw the singer’s dogwalker shot. The motive behind the crime appeared to be the lucrative black market for French bulldogs, emphasizing a disturbing trend beyond celebrity circles. Recent incidents near Fort St. John in northern B.C. and a peculiar dognapping in Calgary further underscore the unsettling reality that pet abduction is not as uncommon as one might assume.
Eyal Lichtmann, CEO of the Regional Animal Protection Society, warns that pet owners need to be proactive in safeguarding their furry companions. He stresses the importance of identification as the primary safety precaution, advocating for the microchipping of every pet to facilitate swift reunions in case of separation.
“In the case of theft, proving ownership can be surprisingly challenging,” Lichtmann notes. Law enforcement, he adds, is likely to treat dognapping as theft, underscoring the necessity for owners to substantiate their claim over a pet.
The complexities of custody disputes over pets, particularly in the aftermath of domestic breakups, are an additional cause for concern. Lichtmann acknowledges the legal advancements in B.C. regarding animal custody but emphasizes that pre-court abductions remain problematic, often likened to disputes over material possessions.
In addition to microchipping, Lichtmann offers practical advice for pet owners. Securing properties with locked gates, avoiding leaving pets unattended, and maintaining discretion on social media to protect sensitive information are crucial steps. Owners are urged to refrain from leaving pets off-leash and out of sight, ensuring they respond to essential commands to mitigate vulnerability to abduction.
“Consider varying your walking routines,” Lichtmann suggests, acknowledging that such precautions may seem paranoid but are essential in preventing the heartbreaking loss of a cherished family member. Staying informed about local issues and being vigilant about suspicious behaviors, he concludes, is a small but necessary price to pay for ensuring the safety and well-being of pets.
