CONCERNED dog owners in the Forest of Dean area are being warned via social media about a reported increase in dog thefts locally – including a beagle puppy reported missing from Ruardean this week.

In a stark warning via Facebook, a posting suggests that owners walk in a group, and warns against leaving their dogs unattended in a garden.

Under the title Warning to Forest of Dean dog owners they wrote: “There has been an increase in attempted dog thefts in this area and your dog may be at risk.

“Please be on your guard at all times and report any incident or suspicious activity to the police. Please be aware that any dog is at risk.

“Attempts have been made to take dogs being walked by their owners – please be vigilant and keep a constant lookout. Where possible try to walk in a group. Avoid isolated areas.

“Be wary of approach from strangers. It is advisable not to leave dogs unattended in gardens.

“Make sure you have an up-to-date photo of your dog(s) on any mobile device.”

The advice for dog owners from the Forest of Dean District Council dog warden service says: “Remember to make sure that your dog always wears a collar with a name tag or identity disc bearing your name and address, then in the event of the dog straying it will be reunited with you more easily. In addition get your dog microchipped, then if it loses its collar and tag it can still be identified.”

The latest posting about dog thefts on the internet was on Monday of this week, when a female beagle puppy was reported to be missing from Ruardean Hill, by owner Rachel Priest, on the Facebook page Dog Theft Action.