A dog owner has come up with a clever trick to deter potential dog thieves, and the internet is loving it. In a TikTok video, Kate Smith (@katelivingoutloud) shares her experience and the advice she received from a worker at her local pet store regarding the theft risk for pure-bred German shepherds. The employee warned her that because her dog looks expensive, people might be more inclined to sell him rather than return him. To counteract this, the employee suggested a creative idea for the dog's name tag that would motivate the finder to return the puppy. Smith decided to include a message on the tag that would catch strangers' attention and encourage them to bring the dog back. The video showcases a close-up of the tag, which reads: "Mason: Needs Meds or he'll s*** everywhere."
The response to Smith's ingenious idea has been overwhelmingly positive, with the TikTok footage garnering 9.5 million views and plenty of laughter. TikTokers found the concept both brilliant and hilarious, praising Smith for her creativity. The Animal Legal Defense Fund estimates that around 2 million pets are stolen each year in the United States, but only a small percentage of them are returned to their owners. With theft being a real concern for pet owners, Smith's trick offers a unique approach to deter potential thieves and increase the chances of recovering a stolen dog.
While laws against animal theft vary across states, with most considering pets as property, Smith's idea taps into the importance of raising awareness and taking preventative measures. Pure-bred dogs are particularly vulnerable to theft, especially those considered valuable or in high demand. By using a witty and attention-grabbing message on the dog's tag, Smith hopes to discourage potential thieves and increase the likelihood of Mason being returned safely.
The online community has expressed their admiration for Smith's creative thinking and the humor behind her approach. Fellow dog owners praised her ingenuity, with one user calling the dog tag "fantastic" and another describing the idea as "brilliant." Many viewers found the reveal of the tag in the video highly amusing, commending Smith for her cleverness. Some shared their own experiences and similar tactics they have used to protect their pets, highlighting the common concern among owners about potential theft.
Smith's video serves as a lighthearted reminder of the importance of taking precautions to keep our beloved pets safe. While theft remains a serious issue, Smith's humorous and unconventional approach offers a fresh perspective on addressing the problem. As one TikTok user playfully commented, "What's really funny is this is what would ACTUALLY HAPPEN if my dog wasn't returned to me." The video has not only entertained viewers but also sparked conversations about pet safety and the need for increased awareness around the issue of animal theft.