One of the most common and devastating forms of property crime is dog theft. Dog thieves can be opportunistic or may specifically target certain breeds for their market value.
Dog theft is at an all time high, with over 2,700 dogs being stolen in the last year, which is equivalent to almost 8 dogs every day (The Independent).
Although most people assume that dogs are taken whilst outside on walks, it is actually the case that more than 70% of dogs are reported to have been stolen from their place of residence, and nearly half of them were taken from inside their own homes.
In order to deter dog thieves, here are some home security tips:
Video Doorbells
Investing in a video doorbell is an easy way to help deter dog thieves. Video doorbells, such as the Ring video doorbell, have gained popularity in recent years.
They provide a sense of security by keeping watch for intruders and giving the impression that someone is always at home.
Dog thieves often ring the doorbell before breaking into a house to steal a dog. By using a Ring doorbell or similar devices that work with mobile phones, you can receive an alert when someone is at your front door.
As long as your phone has an internet connection, you can use the associated app to speak through the doorbell from any location and make it seem like you are at home.
If a homeowner is aware of a potential thief’s presence, it is unlikely that they will attempt to break in. Additionally, certain video doorbells can capture footage of the potential thief as the doorbell records all interactions.
Some doorbells have motion detection alert features that can be customised by the user. Thieves can trigger the alert even without ringing the doorbell.
This means that as soon as someone steps onto your property, you will receive a notification on your phone. Video doorbells often have night vision capabilities to prevent burglars and dog thieves from exploiting darkness.
Lincs Alarms can install a video doorbell at your premises please contact us for more information.
Security Cameras
Indoor Security Cameras
Installing a security camera in your home is another way to deter dog theft. Security cameras can be used indoors and outdoors, as well as connected to the internet for remote viewing.
You can watch footage from your smartphone or laptop by connecting it directly to the security camera. This allows homeowners to keep an eye on their property even when they are away.
Security cameras with motion detection features like infrared sensors will send an alert whenever something moves within its range of view, which could also help spot potential thieves before they have a chance to break into your house.
Outdoor Security Cameras
Outdoor security cameras are useful for monitoring the exterior of your house. They can be used to monitor the front door, backyard and other areas of entry that may be vulnerable to dog theft.
Outdoor cameras are generally equipped with night vision and offer more advanced features than indoor security cameras such as motion sensors, facial recognition, and two-way audio.
Strong Locks
The best way to discourage thieves from entering your home is to install strong locks on all doors and windows.
These include deadbolts, chain locks, or padlocks. Make sure to change the locks after you move into a new property.
Additionally, it is important to keep doors and windows locked at all times, even while you are home. This will prevent burglars from trying to take advantage of an unsecured entry point.
Burglar Alarm System
An alarm system such as a monitored alarm can be installed in your home which will sound an alert whenever there is any abnormal activity or intrusion.
This provides an extra layer of security for your house and is especially beneficial if you are away from home for extended periods of time as it will alert authorities in case something happens while you’re away.
Find out more about our alarm systems here.
Contact Lincs Alarms Today
If you would like to find out more about our home security services and products, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Lincs Alarms provides top quality alarm systems and other home security solutions that are tailored to meet your specific needs. Contact us today for further information.
