et owners are being urged to exercise heightened caution as criminals seize the opportunity to engage in dog thefts during a critical week, coinciding with the nefarious practice of force-breeding canines for the forthcoming Christmas puppy market.
In the period spanning from the present moment until the initial week of September, unscrupulous puppy farmers strategically target the mating or insemination of female dogs, envisioning a profitable Christmas puppy trade. This timeline aligns with the canine gestation period of nine weeks, affording breeders the window of five to eight weeks for the weaning process, culminating in the sale of the puppies to prospective homes as early as December 20 or even preceding dates.
An investigator, sharing insights with DogsLive, disclosed the alarming dynamics at play, stating, “August becomes a pivotal juncture for morally bereft breeders aiming to infiltrate the Christmas puppy market. With an impending deadline, their focus is solely on procuring breeding machines, irrespective of the source of the dogs.”
“The months of late July and August witness an upsurge in reports of missing dogs, frequently attributed to opportunistic abductions or orchestrated thefts. A significant number of these canines are subjected to artificial stimulation of their reproductive cycles through drug administration. In other instances, canines might enter their heat cycles coincidentally.”
“Perpetrators exhibit a propensity to abduct both male and female dogs, disregarding breed distinctions and even age considerations. Older dogs are often discarded, whereas certain breeds such as French Bulldogs, Dachshunds, and those with aesthetically appealing fluffy coats remain highly sought after for their photogenic allure.”
“While vigilance throughout the year is crucial for safeguarding pets, the months of July and August warrant extra attention. During this period, individuals frequently journey away from their typical locales due to vacations, rendering dogs unfamiliar with their surroundings. Exploiting this vulnerability, dog thieves execute their plans. The present week stands out as the zenith of breeding activities, aimed at meeting the impending Christmas deadline and yielding substantial returns for these unscrupulous operators.”
