ANIMAL welfare charities and activists have welcomed new pet abduction legislation, which is to be introduced in Northern Ireland.

From tomorrow (Saturday), the Pet Abduction Act will make dog and cat abduction a specific offence. 

The law will also make provisions against the abduction of other animals commonly kept as pets, such as ferrets.

Under the legislation, new powers will lead to tougher sentencing of individuals found guilty of pet abduction in Northern Ireland and England. 

It will also give legal recognition to cats and dogs in their own right, rather than as property. 

In May, Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir revealed that a Freedom of Information request showed the PSNI recorded an average of 35 dog thefts each year.

USPCA Chief Executive Nora Smith said: “As a nation of pet-lovers, this new law recognises the emotional impact the theft of a pet can have and brings the perpetrators to justice in a way that reflects the gravity of the crime.

“Pets are not merely items in our lives, they are our family members, they are our best friends. The abduction of a pet is distressing and causes emotional harm not only to the owner but to the pet as well.

"As such, the crime of abducting a pet is being treated more seriously and comes with harsher consequences."

Ms. Smith continued: "Animal welfare is increasingly a key concern amongst the public, who look to the government to take the lead to improve standards.

"The legislation is a welcome step forward in advancing animal welfare, and we welcome the fact that anyone found guilty will face up to five years in prison, a fine, or both."