PET owners are living in fear that their beloved pet could be stolen, according to Blue Cross pet charity, which has a centre in Bromsgrove.

The leading charity has released figures showing stolen pets are on the rise with an increase of almost 40 per cent compared to 2012.

Not surprisingly over a third of the nation’s pet owners are worried their pet could fall prey to thieves.

Owners are now backing the charity’s call for tougher sentences for those who commit the crime, which Blue Cross hopes will act as a deterrent. Almost half of pet owners believe that homes are being deliberately targeted by criminals who are capitalising on the nations’ devotion to their beloved pets, with pets being stolen to sell or in return for a reward or ransom.

Becky Thwaites, Blue Cross spokesman, said: “The effect of having your pet stolen can be absolutely devastating. This is why we want the Government to do more to deal with this increasing problem. Penalties need to be tougher for those committing these crimes to act as deterrent to others.

"We also believe that police forces need to ensure they deal with these cases in a sensitive manner and highlight where owners can go for further support.”

Blue Cross’s pet bereavement support service has been helping pet owners for over 20 years. Each year the charity receives more than 6,000 calls and emails from those who are going or have been through losing a pet – for any reason. It offers free, confidential support on 0800 096 6606.

Tracie McGrory, pet bereavement support manager at Blue Cross said: “A pet is an integral part of so many families who are absolutely devastated if they are stolen. Not only are they missing their pet they are also desperately worried about what is happening to them.”

Blue Cross tips on protecting your pet include thinking twice before leaving pets alone in the car or tied outside a shop, taking clear photographs to help prove ownership if needed, training dogs to come back when called if in a strange place, making sure pets have a microchip, contacting police to report the crime if a pet is stolen, and contacting local animal warden and rescue centres in case pets are dumped.

People can show their support for Blue Cross at #suppawt, text SUPPAWT to 70907 to donate £5 or visit bluecross.org.uk.