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For many, a dog is a part of the family. Little Fido is pet and fed well and taken to the groomer’s once a week. The pampered pooch can also come and go as he pleases — maybe a quick trip through the doggie door to stretch his legs or answer nature’s call.

But what many may not realize is that that tiny cutout in your door intended to cater to man’s best friend can actually be an open invitation to a burglar looking for an entrance.

Reports of burglaries via doggie doors have been in the news recently including several cases in Dallas.

Sgt. Keitric Jones with the Dallas Police Department says he spoke with the investigative unit about break-ins through dog- gie doors, and while it is not a common occurrence, it does happen; a doggie door creates a part of the home that is not secure — exactly what a crafty burglar is looking for.

“People should be mindful though, if their doggie door is large enough to fit a large dog, a human may possibly fit through the doggie door as well,” he says.

A locking door or security cover is recommended to deter burglars who might use this method to enter a home. Also, security experts recommend that doggie doors be installed in a wall, which is more difficult to kick in. Motion-sensing lights and security systems can also deter a burglar who does manage to get inside this way.

CRIME NUMBERS |

7:30 a.m. 6400 2

Time of day on Oct. 6 when someone pried open a garage door in the 4400 block of Mill Run and stole expensive sporting equipment, including a brand new mountain bike, golf clubs, a snow board and other gear as well as motorcycle helmets and lawn tools

SOURCE: Dallas Police Department

Block of Chevy Chase where a suspect stole Halloween decorations from a neighbor’s yard sometime overnight between Oct. 4 and Oct. 5.

Number of burglaries that occurred in Windsor Park at the end of September