Pet Theft Awareness Day

Divya Raghav
Dec 22, 2023 By Divya Raghav
Originally Published on Mar 21, 2022
Fact-checked by Pratiti Nath
Pet Theft Awareness Day is extremely important to observe for the security of pets.

Where is Pet Theft Awareness Day celebrated?

Pet Theft Awareness Day is celebrated all around the world.

Who is Pet Theft Awareness Day celebrated by?

Pet Theft Awareness Day is celebrated by pet parents, pet owners, pet sitters, and individuals who love their pets, be it dogs or cats.

When did Pet Theft Awareness Day first start?

This day began its journey in 1988.

Who started Pet Theft Awareness Day?

It was initiated by the Last Chance For Animals Organization.

History And Timeline

Pet Theft Awareness Day was established in 1988 by the Last Chance for Animals organization with the goal of educating pet owners on how to keep their pets safe from getting stolen or lost. The danger is serious, with about 2 million pets being stolen every year in the United States alone.

Microchipping or tattooing pets are two choices, both of which may give a chance for group bonding. A permanent mark indicating who belongs to whom may link a couple and their pets till death do them part.

Valentine's Day Origination

Valentine's Day began on February 14 of this year.

AD 496

Pet Theft Law

The UK government covered the theft of a pet under the Theft Act of 1968.

1968

Launch Of The Day

Pet Theft Awareness Day was launched in 1988 on the same day as Valentine's Day.

1988

Microchips To ID Animals

During the 1990s, RFID-enabled microchips were implanted on pets to prevent them from getting lost or stolen by thieves.

'90s

Pet Tags Were Introduced

During the 1990s, pet tags were introduced in order to provide proper identification for pets and their safety in times of need.

'90s

Traditions And Customs

Every year, this day is celebrated by pet owners from all over the world in honor of their furry friends and to discuss pet safety issues in society.

Ways To Observe Or Celebrate Pet Theft Awareness Day

 Microchip Your Pet: You should properly identify your pet with collar-tips, a leash, or a tag while ensuring that your pet is microchipped and that all of its information in the database is up-to-date. Not only is this important for the safe homecoming of a lost dog, but it also serves as a confirmation of ownership.

Spay Or Neuter Your Pet Cat Or Dog: Not only can spaying and neutering your pet dog assist with the catastrophic animal control issue, but it also keeps your pets closer to home. Neutered or spayed dogs and cats are less prone to straying.

Keep Your Pets Indoors: When you are not at home, do not let your beloved pet roam free unsupervised in the yard for long periods of time. Even if you have a fenced-in front yard, a burglar can kidnap your beloved dog in under a minute.

Allowing your dog to run loose in the neighborhood is never a good idea.

Facts And Stats

  •  On this day it is important to keep in mind that 2 million pets get stolen every year in the United States alone.
  • The fact that 10% of missing dogs are recovered makes it a crucial day.
  • As this day is celebrated on Valentine's Day, it's ideal to spend time with your pets.

What to do if someone you know steals your pet?

You should make a complaint to the local police.

How common is pet theft?

Pet theft is extremely common, with about 2 million pets stolen each year in the United States alone.

Is stealing a pet a crime?

Yes, stealing a pet is a crime.

What is the importance of celebrating Pet Theft Awareness Day?

Pet Theft Awareness Day helps you raise awareness about missing pet and companion animals, especially stolen dogs and cats.

Why do we celebrate Pet Theft Awareness Day?

We celebrate this day in order to raise awareness against pet thefts.

When Is This Day Celebrated

  • Friday, February 14, 2020
  • Sunday, February 14, 2021
  • Monday, February 14, 2022
  • Tuesday, February 14, 2023
  • Wednesday, February 14, 2024

We Want Your Photos!
We Want Your Photos!

We Want Your Photos!

Do you have a photo you are happy to share that would improve this article?
Email your photos

More for You

See All

Written by Divya Raghav

Bachelor of Commerce specializing in Accounting and Finance, Master of Business Administration

Divya Raghav picture

Divya RaghavBachelor of Commerce specializing in Accounting and Finance, Master of Business Administration

With a diverse range of experience in finance, administration, and operations, Divya is a diligent worker known for her attention to detail. Born and raised in Bangalore, she completed her Bachelor's in Commerce from Christ University and is now pursuing an MBA at Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Bangalore. Along with her professional pursuits, Divya has a passion for baking, dancing, and writing content. She is also an avid animal lover who dedicates her time to volunteering for animal welfare causes.

Read full bio >
Fact-checked by Pratiti Nath

Bachelor of Science specializing in Microbiology, Masters of Science specializing in Biotechnology

Pratiti Nath picture

Pratiti NathBachelor of Science specializing in Microbiology, Masters of Science specializing in Biotechnology

A Master's in Biotechnology from Presidency University and a Bachelor's in Microbiology from Calcutta University. Pratiti holds expertise in writing science and healthcare articles, and their inputs and feedback help writers create insightful content. They have interests in heritage, history, and climate change issues and have written articles for various websites across multiple subjects. Their experience also includes working with eco-friendly startups and climate-related NGOs.

Read full bio >