POLICE have warned pet owners to be on their guard following fears of organised dog thefts in the area.

Some dog owners across North Ayrshire fear their animals have been specifically targeted by thieves operating in Irvine, Kilwinning and the Three Towns.

According to posts on Ayrshire Police’s Facebook page, some residents say their garden gates, walls and fences have been ‘marked’ with special symbols which indicate a dog lives at the property and, they say, has been earmarked to be stolen.

Despite residents’ fears, police say there have only been two reported dog thefts in Ayrshire - one in Irvine and another in Stevenston - which resulted in both animals being returned to their owners.

The alleged theft in Irvine occurred when a man took a dog for a walk and allegedly failed to return and in Stevenston a man allegedly removed a dog from a garden and sold it on.

Following enquiries both dogs were returned to their owners safe and well and two people have been reported to the Procurator Fiscal for alleged theft.

However this week Police warned dog owners to be vigilant and take the necessary steps to protect their pooches.

Owners should ensure pets are microchipped, because if your dog runs off and is found, you can be easily traced as its owner.

If your dog is stolen, when it is recovered or taken to the vets, they will discover that the dog is chipped and you will be identified as its rightful owner.

Pet owners are warned not to leave dogs unattended in the street or in a car - particularly when the weather starts to warm up.

Ensure your garden is secure and don’t leave them alone for long periods of time. If you keep them outside, make sure your property and kennels are secure.

Always keep them on a lead when walking near roads. Ensure your dog is fully trained to come back to you before you let it off the lead. Don’t allow your dog to run free near roads or in built up areas.

Don’t allow it to run free near farm animals. Don’t let it become a nuisance or danger to other people or animals.

If you see any suspicious activity, vehicles or people please call police on 101.

If you see a crime in progress, always dial 999.