Popularity of pandemic puppies and the rise of dognapping

In Wales, Dyfed-Powys police have returned nearly 30 dogs to their rightful owners after police officers found 80 animals at a property in Carmarthenshire. — dpa/NPCC/Dyfed Powys Police/Heddlu Dyf

Many in Britain are, unsurprisingly, longing for a dog, as a panacea for the fear, loneliness and lack of exercise caused by the pandemic. And the criminal world has taken notice.

According to Pets4Homes, a platform for the industry, the price of puppies has more than doubled over the past year, fuelled by this newfound interest, and thieves are also now seeking to profit.