Disturbing trend in animal thefts - Owners are left stunned as their beloved pets go missing

Published: 24 February 2011
by JAMIE WELHAM

A SERIES of mysterious cat and dog disappearances has sparked fears that a petnapper is on the prowl.

A rare white German shepherd dog and two tabby cats have vanished in the past fortnight and distressed residents in Mornington Crescent believe this is no coincidence. 

Worried owners believe the cats are being targeted because of their resemblance to the rare Highland breed, which can fetch hundreds of pounds on the black market. And white German shepherd puppies regularly change hands for more than £600 between breeders.

Kate Percival, who lives in Camden High Street, said her cat, Heidi, vanished last week.

She added: “Heidi has never gone missing before. She’s really friendly and I’m terrified she’s trapped in a room somewhere being held against her will.”

Lampposts in the area have been covered with posters appealing for information and pet owners have put kennels and dog wardens on high alert.

Sonia Maher, who lives in Elm Village, said: “She’s a very distinctive dog, you don’t see many like her around. I think she was taken when we got broken into. I’m not telling anyone her name just in case they [thieves] find out what she’s called but I am starting to lose hope.”

The second tabby owner – a professional dog walker – who lives in Mornington Crescent and would only give his surname, Toggse, said: “The same thing happened three years ago. Cats are vulnerable because they are so affectionate. It’s very easy to snatch a cat. I’m still hopeful Bubble-T will find his way back, but he’s been gone for eight days now.”

A police spokeswoman said Safer Neighbourhood teams in Somers Town and Regent’s Park would investigate the reports.