LOS ANGELES (CBS) - If you're one of millions of dog owners in the Los
Angeles area, be sure to keep an eye on your beloved four-legged friend.

Dog thefts are up 32 percent this year, according to the American Kennel Club.


Stolen dogs are almost always resold, and are often used in laboratories or
dog fights.

Pit bulls and other large breeds are stolen the most frequently. Purebreds
are also at risk because thieves think they can get a lot of money for
them.

However, without paperwork, purebreds are usually no more valuable than mixed breeds.

The AKC database of registered dogs show 224 pets have been stolen this
year, compared to 255 for all of 2010.
  
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