Southend West MP Anna Firth to have Second Reading of Pet Abduction Bill
Anna Firth wants to separate the theft of pets from property
A Second Reading will be taking place in the House of Commons today, for the Pet Abduction Bill, introduced by Southend West MP Anna Firth.
Today (January 19), Parliament will be hearing about the Bill, which aims to make it a crime to take or detain a dog or cat, as a theft.
Under current laws, the theft of a pet is considered the same as theft of property, taking in no recognition that pets are loved members of the family, and often have a longer-lasting, deeper impact on owners than some property that could be stolen.
"Pet theft is a huge issue"
A taskforce was set up by the Government, following the Covid-19 pandemic, called the 'Pet Theft Taskforce' which looked to address and gather evidence surround pet thefts and the rise in the crime.
Anna Firth MP is also addressing the issue as under current sentencing laws, the theft of a pet is only reflected in the value as an item, but Ms Firth believes this is inadequate for those who have had their pet stolen; their trauma, long-lasting damage and upset, and also for the pet which as been stolen, which would cause distress for many animals.
The Bill aims to create a specific offence for pet abduction, enabling thorough sentencing through a new focussed offence.
"Every single one is a huge trauma"
Speaking to Greatest Hits Radio, Anna Firth said:
"Every single one is a huge trauma to a family. Even when they are prosecuted, they are treated as if they're objects, as if they're a mobile phone, or a laptop.
"And they're just not. you know a pet is a member of the family, they are sentient beings, and we need the law to reflect that."
In an article posted on Anna Firth's website, the MP states it was a local woman, who had her four rescue dogs stolen whilst trying to locate another missing pet, which also encouraged her to push forward with this bill.
Anna has a strong love for animals, similar to many across the country who welcome a pet into their lives, who then become a member of the family.
The Pet Abduction Bill is getting a second reading in Parliament, today.