DOG owners are being warned about thieves posing as RSPCA officers.

The pet stealers approach people and try to remove the victim's dog by claiming that the animal matches a description of a stolen pooch.

A police spokesman said: “Never let your dog be taken in these circumstances, the RSPCA never take a dog like that. RSPCA officers will have valid ID. If in any doubt, call the head office on 0300 1234999. Please inform the police on 101 with as much detail as possible such as vehicle registration.”

The warning came after these tactics were used by thieves in Kent.

Last month, Wiltshire officers arrested three men after the theft of five puppies and two dogs from Bristol.

In November, police said a group of men in a 4x4 were spotted driving around the Bagshot, Shalbourne and Bedwyn area attempting to take dogs from kennels, gardens and back yards.

Pet owners were previously warned about a new ploy where the thieves pull up alongside dog walkers in a white van with an RSPCA sticker on the side.

A spokesman for the Countryside Alliance said: "These reports about the new twisted tactics being used by criminals who are targeting our much-loved pets demonstrate they are becoming more sophisticated in their methods.

"Please be vigilant and report suspicious behaviour to the police as we fight back against these criminals.”

Animal Search, a leading search service for missing pets in the United Kingdom, said: “There has been a huge rise in dog thefts reported to us here at Animal Search UK.

"Demand has skyrocketed because of lockdown, where people now have more time to spend with their new pets and train them.”