'I've had people ring me wanting to take their own life because their dog was stolen'
We're hearing from Wayne May a police liaison officer for DogLost UK from Dartford.
A dog theft charity in Kent has told us that they are receiving calls from people wanting to take their own lives after having their pet stolen.
Last year saw over 150 reported cases of dog thefts in the county, with only 20 being found, however, this was a 33% improvement from the previous year.
The report by Direct Line found that 23,430 dogs were stolen in the across the country between 2014 and 2024, with 5,005 (21%) successfully returned to their owners.
Wayne May is from Dartford and is a police liaison officer for DogLost UK and he explains the impact it can have: "I've met so many nice people that rely on their dogs and I have seen the devastating consequences that it can have.
"And I would invite anybody to receive a call at 11pm night from owner, when you are doing everything you can to stop them from taking their own life because of their pet has been taken.
"That's why seeing these numbers go down means so much to me and to prevent thefts from happening owners can take their dog for a walk in a different place each day.
"Perhaps they can set up a dog walking group so they aren't on their own, and if you are by yourself, just be vigilant of the people around you.
"Also make sure your dog is insured and have an up to date microchip because these are all things that can help us find your pet if they are stolen."