AURORA, Colo. -- A Pomeranian puppy stolen from an Aurora family’s front porch is the latest in a series of dog abductions across Colorado.
FOX 31 Denver first reported on the alarming increase in dog thefts.
According to the American Kennel Club reports of stolen dogs are up 50-percent in Colorado from this time last year.
Sharice Goins of Aurora appears to be the latest victim.
"It’s like grieving…almost like losing a family member,” she said.
Her 5-month-old Pomeranian, “Teddy,” was leashed outside for just a few minutes and when she went to let him in she found his leash and un-buckled harness on the ground.
"There’s no way he could have done this himself,” she said.
Goins filed a police report and posted missing flyers, but she fears the $900 dog will be sold for profit or held for ransom.
The AKC believes the thieves are selling the dogs for profit on websites like Craigslist, or holding them for ransom, just like what happened to Marina McNichols of Pueblo, who was featured in a FOX31 investigation on Oct. 31.
“We got the phone call and he said I know where your dog is,” McNichols said. Her stolen pug was returned only after she agreed to pay the suspected thief a $200 reward.
The sharp rise in dog thefts may be why websites, like www.petamberalert.com are growing in popularity.
The service, which starts at $49.85, sends missing flyers to vets and shelters within a 10 to 50 miles radius, for an additional cost it will make reverse 9-11 calls to all the residents in the area.
The owner boasts a 78-percent success rate for pets reported missing within 48 hours.
Goins is using a similar website to help find her dog.
"We’re doing everything we can,” she said, “We just want him back. That’s all we want.”
“Teddy” has upper respiratory issues and requires medication.
If you have any information on his whereabouts, contact the Aurora Police department.
