Boris Johnson's government is looking at tough punishments for thieves or people who abandon their pets. The Prime Minister, 56, was revealed today to have taken up the cause amid fears many canines could suffer when people go back to work following months at home during lockdown. His government's further intervention came on the day his former adviser Dominic Cummings is appearing before MPs, where he is expected to metaphorically maul Mr Johnson. The criminal phenomenon of Dognapping soared during lockdown as people stuck at home were desperate for companionship. Now plans to prosecute people under animal welfare laws instead of the Theft Act 1968 are being considered.