An Edinburgh dog owner has been left distraught and is launching a desperate public appeal after his beloved pet was allegedly snatched from him outside a supermarket in the Niddrie area of the city.
Horrific Incident on Wauchope Avenue
Andrea Paviani was on Wauchope Avenue near the Lidl store in Niddrie at approximately 7pm on Wednesday, February 4, when his one-year-old American Bully, named Kali, was reportedly taken. The incident unfolded as a tall man, described by Andrea as wearing blue clothing including a beanie and shorts, allegedly grabbed the dog.
"My dog was stolen at around 7pm on Wauchope Avenue at Niddrie Lidl," Andrea confirmed, expressing his anguish over the sudden loss of his cherished companion.
Description of Missing Dog Kali
Kali is a distinctive brown and white American Bully with several identifiable features that Andrea hopes will aid in her safe return:
- She is one year old and weighs approximately 30kg, described as stocky and bulky in build.
- She has a white marking on her forehead and tail, along with white paws.
- Kali is microchipped, which could assist authorities in verifying her identity if found.
- At the time of the incident, she was wearing a yellow lead and a blue collar.
Andrea emphasised Kali's energetic and lively nature, stating she is "extremely lively" and "always bouncy." He urged locals to be vigilant, noting that if her name, Kali, is shouted very loudly, she should "dash towards you immediately" or "run to you in a second."
Owner's Emotional Appeal and Police Involvement
Andrea has made a heartfelt plea to the public, describing the situation as every pet owner's nightmare come true. "Help me bring Kali back home to her dad," he implored, highlighting the deep bond between them.
He has reported the incident to the authorities, confirming that Police Scotland officers have been notified. The force has been contacted for further comment on the investigation, though details remain limited at this stage.
Broader Context of Dog Theft in the UK
This distressing case occurs against a backdrop of ongoing concerns about pet theft across the United Kingdom. Recent data indicates that dog theft remains a significant issue, with an estimated 1,808 dogs reported stolen in 2024 alone. This equates to roughly five dogs being taken every day, underscoring the scale of the problem.
While this figure represents a 21% decrease from the previous year, 2023, the emotional toll on owners like Andrea remains profound. The trauma of having a pet snatched, often in brazen circumstances, can lead to lasting distress and anxiety for families and individuals.
Andrea's experience serves as a stark reminder for all pet owners to remain vigilant, especially in public spaces, and to ensure their animals are properly microchipped and identifiable. The community's assistance is now crucial in reuniting Kali with her owner, as the search continues in and around Edinburgh.
