Southport residents are being urged to have their say on the punishment of dog thefts in a national police survey.
The call comes amid fears that thefts have risen by 250% during lockdown and criminal gangs are believed to be targeting the most expensive breeds.
Demand for dogs as pets has increased during the pandemic and prices have soared to as high as £3,000.
Home Secretary Priti Patel is currently reviewing the issue of pet theft and what future enforcement may look like with potentially tougher penalties for perpetrators.
The survey covers people’s opinions on enforcement and prosecution and includes