RSPCA warning after men impersonate officers in attempt to 'snatch' dog
Video report by ITV News Meridian's Richard Slee
Animal welfare charity, the RSPCA, has issued a warning to dog owners after two men posed as charity workers in an attempt to "snatch" a dog in Dorset.
Two men in a van approached a woman out walking her dog in the West Moors area claiming to be from the RSPCA before asking to take her dog.
It follows similar recent incidents in London and Yorkshire in which people pretended to be RSPCA officers in an attempt to access dogs.
The charity says RSPCA officers will always be wearing uniforms bearing the charity’s logo, and will always carry identification.
RSPCA Chief Inspector for Dorset and Wiltshire, Lewis Taylor, said: “We would like to remind and reassure the public that all of our officers wear branded uniforms and carry issued RSPCA identification.
“If an RSPCA officer is in contact with you, or visits your home and you are unsure of their credentials, then please ask to see their official ID and look for the RSPCA badge on their clothing.
“If you have taken these steps and are concerned someone isn't who they say they are, you can always ring our national call centre on 0300 1234 999 for confirmation.
“If you believe someone is impersonating a member of our staff please report the incident to us and to your local police."
The RSPCA is urging dog owners to take extra precautions to protect their pets, including:
Neutering them
Microchipping them (with up-to-date contact details)
Ensuring they wear a collar with an ID tag or embroidered contact details
Never leave pets tied up outside shops or alone in cars
Ensure your dog has a good recall
Ensure your dog doesn’t stray too far when being walked off-lead
Ensure gardens are secure with locked gates