PET thieves will now face tougher sentences after a change to the law.

The Kept Animals Bill was amended to reflect the emotional distress caused by pet theft.

Until now, pet theft was treated merely as a loss of property to the owner.

It was claimed that this did not reflect the sense of loss and grief experienced by pet owners.

Sussex Police and crime commissioner Katy Bourne was a member of the Pet Theft Taskforce, which recommended the change.

The Argus: Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne of herself. A survey she organised to gauge public opinion indicated dog owners are more scared of walking their pets now than this timeCrime Commissioner Katy Bourne of herself. A survey she organised to gauge public opinion indicated dog owners are more scared of walking their pets now than this time

She welcomed the news that those who abduct dogs will now face up to five years behind bars.

Ms Bourne said: “I’m delighted that the government has recognised the extreme distress, grief and sense of loss that pet theft can cause to both owners and their dogs with this amendment.

“In a landmark survey, which I conducted earlier this year, 87 per cent of respondents disagreed with the current classification of pets as mere property and wanted to see much harsher sentencing.

“Pets are a much loved member of the family and the amendment to the Kept Animals Bill now reflects the lasting emotional impact that their theft can have.

"It also sends a strong message to thieves that they could face up to five years in prison.”

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