The case of Lady Gaga’s dognapped French Bulldogs have revived discussions anew on dognapping, and how much of a real threat it is.
Especially for breeds that are deemed to be much higher in value than others, stolen pets have caused many a pet owner to be stressed and highly concerned.
A lost pet is sometimes just that, though–lost.
It’s highly possible that they simply escaped from their leash and then proceeded to wander down the streets, only to not be able to find their way back home.
Understandably, this is a very devastating situation, and any dog owner would make sure to exert all possible efforts at bringing back their beloved pooch home.
Then again, what if it is actually dog theft?
Is there any possible recourse for the owners to turn to, if not for their dog’s search and rescue, then at least compensation for their emotional stress?
And no, pet insurance does not cover dog theft. Keep reading to learn more.
Pet Insurance for Dog Theft
As with life insurance for humans, it can be difficult to ascribe monetary value to your pet’s life.
However, this is necessary, especially if you want to protect them from theft.
It can be a tricky process, though, especially because pet insurance policies in general only cover for accidents and injuries.
Even with all the add-ons possible, finding a classification that’s going to correctly include dog theft as a justification for an insurance claim is going to be challenging.
Dogs aren’t also necessarily part of your house structure, and so filing for a dog insurance policy with a real estate agent might be odd, given the circumstances.
If these types of insurance are not going to be enough, though, what will?
Interestingly enough, dog theft can be insured under commercial insurance.
This is because dog theft is, more often than not, driven by monetary gains.
Dog Theft for Money
High value breeds, such as Maltese, Pomeranians, and Yorkshire Terriers, to name a few, are very susceptible to dog theft for many reasons.
For one, they are relatively small, and so make for an easy grab.
Two, they simply are fan favorites, with many people eagerly on the lookout for an available dog that they can bring home.
Most importantly, however, is that they cost a lot.
These types of dogs can fetch from anywhere in the $300 to $1,500, or even $2,000, range.
The final price will depend on a variety of factors, such as the dog’s breed, weight, and lineage.
Champion dogs, or those that join in competitions are certainly going to cost more because of their top-notch quality.
It’s safe to say, therefore, that any dog owner spending this much to acquire a dog would want to insure their investment, especially in case somebody gets too friendly with their dog and decides to whisk it away with them.
Reasons for Dog Theft
Why would anyone want to steal somebody else’s pet? Simple: it’s easy money.
Flippers, or those who steal dogs, only to put them back in the market for sale, can easily earn as much as $3,000 to $4,000.
And that’s the “good scenario.”
Some stolen dogs are sold to backyard breeders, or even used as baits for dog fight training.
Basically, all dark things you never would want your beloved pet to go through.
That is why more than getting an insurance policy covering their theft, it’s even more important to ensure their safety first and foremost.
Dog Theft Prevention
There are many ways to prevent dog theft, but the most important and effective one will always be the simplest: keep them on a leash and stay alert.
Understandably, it would be very nice to have your dog play in the park without a leash, but unless you can be sure to stay close enough to them at all times, don’t let them out of your sight, much less your reach, especially when there are too many unknown people around.
Some people also tend to be complacent when going around the neighborhood to do errands.
Every time you leave your dog tied to a post outside puts them at risk of being scooped away by a stranger.
If you can do your errands without having to tie up your dog and away from you for long periods of time, then that would keep them safe at home.
Speaking of home, it’s also important to secure your home–as you should–for the safety of your dog as well.
You’d be surprised at how dedicated some dog thieves are, even breaking into homes and other properties just to execute their evil plans.
That said, exercise due diligence as well when getting a dog sitter.
There are reliable companies out there that offer dog-sitting or dog-walking services to keep your pooch active and happy.
Just make sure their record is clean and that they’re not likely to run off with your dog.
Also, some people bring their dogs along to their walks as a deterrent.
If your dog is the target, however, then it’s also important for you to have something that could scare off the potential dog thief.
Defensive sprays, emergency whistles, horns, and other noise-making materials can be effective in attracting attention to you, and thus the attacker.
Most importantly, always stay alert in your surroundings.
Don’t immerse yourself too much in your earphones or headphones; pay attention to the path you’re taking, the people you pass by, and the people walking after you.
Insurance for Dog Theft
To answer the question on dog theft coverage in insurance policy, therefore, it actually depends on the policy you’re getting.
If you can fulfill the requirements for a commercial insurance, then it could be possible to get dog theft covered under an insurance.
To be sure, seek a consult with your insurance agent to have a clear picture of how this insurance can help you in case of dog theft.