Karin TarQwyn

Once you have determined  your dog has most likely been stolen, you must involve law enforcement.

You may need police or sheriff intervention, as well as a case number, should your dog be located and you need to prove credibility and/or ownership.

Call the police or sheriff and file a stolen property report as soon as possible. A solid piece of evidence or strong witness statement is very helpful. For example, your pet was removed from the yard and the lock on the gate was cut with a bolt cutter or  a witness saw  someone enter your property the day the pet went missing).

               Once you file the report, write down the case number as well as the name and badge number of the officer taking your report. Be sure to ask for the name of the detective who will be assigned to your case. Should you meet resistance or a lack of concern by the officer, 

be firm but friendly in convincing the officer to file the report. Do not get aggressive or threatening. You need their help.

 An additional option, once your report is filed, is to hire a private investigator licensed in the state where your pet went missing. Select an investigator that is passionate about your case, knows the area and has handled the return of stolen property before which is what a stolen pet is legally considered in most states.

Follow-up on leads but encourage law enforcement to participate. Check regularly with the officer or detective handling your case and forward any promising leads that have substance to the detective handling your case.

Important: If you believe you know where your stolen pet is being kept:

It is imperative that you DO NOT approach the individual or property where you believe your dog is being kept. Instead, 
call the detective on your case and ask them to intervene on your behalf to make the recovery of your dog.

​​​The Stolen Dog

Action - File a Police Report