"I am incredibly eager to get more detail around this issue and understand residents' views." Katy Bourne, Sussex PCC.

PCCs eager to gather more information on perception of growing issue.

Police and crime commissioner for Sussex Katy Bourne has partnered with the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC) to create an online survey which hopes to gauge the public’s views on dog theft, enforcement, and the prosecution of offenders.

The survey is open to anyone across England and Wales, and includes a question asking whether companion animals should be treated as sentient beings by the law, rather than as property.

Results from the survey will inform discussions between police and crime commissioners across the country. Helping law enforcement services to better understand the public's views.

Mrs Bourne said: "Pet theft, dog theft in particular, is a growing concern for the public and their fear has been perpetuated over the last couple of weeks with shocking reports in the media of more dogs being snatched by criminals.

"I am incredibly eager to get more detail around this issue and understand residents’ views and if they feel more could be done to respond to their concerns or for more preventative measures to be put in place to better protect their pets.

Last week, Priti Patel stated that she was in talks to introduce stricter penalties for pet theft. A move which was welcomed by animal welfare charities across the country.

Mrs Bourne added: "I’m pleased to see the Home Secretary recognising the devastating impact of this crime and I hope that the results of this survey will give the Government the evidence it needs to take more robust action against perpetrators.”

The survey can be accessed here and will close on Friday 12 March.