Only use legal tatters – don’t encourage the cowboys. And keep an eye on your dogs! Image from West Midlands Police.

I’ve had a very credible message from a Brownhills resident who very nearly had their pet dog stolen oven the weekend, and warns readers to beware of tatters and door-to-door handymen.

Nearly had my own bike taken by a tatter yesterday, so take care.

The resident said:

Hi Bob

Could you please make people aware on ur blog that this morning we had tatters/scrap men in the Brownhills area who attempted to take one of our dogs while I was putting some scrap out for them.

They picked one of my dogs up and walked towards their van, lucky enough I had my wits about me dropped the scrap and grabbed my dog from him before he got in his van and drove off.

There were two men, roughly in their 40s. One slim build the driver and the passenger still in the van was a larger build.

I have contacted the police and I have an appointment to make a statement at Walsall police station.

I just wanted to bring this to everyone’s attention.

Thankfully we were lucky this time.

It goes without saying to be careful, but also a good idea if we stop leaving stuff out for tatters. It encourages more of them, and can add to flytipping and other issues. It’s also against the law.

Always use a reputable scrap man – there are a few about.

Please keep an eye on your pets, and be aware – and if you know anything about this incident or any other, please do contact West Midlands Police by dialling 101 or speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.