diff --git a/src/steal.c b/src/steal.c
index 89ac7c841..f90d66a55 100644
--- a/src/steal.c
+++ b/src/steal.c
@@ -650,11 +650,11 @@ mpickobj(struct monst *mtmp, struct obj *otmp)
             pline("%s out.", Tobjnam(otmp, "go"));
         snuff_otmp = TRUE;
     }
+    /* for hero owned object on shop floor, mtmp is taking possession
+       and if it's eventually dropped in a shop, shk will claim it */
+    otmp->no_charge = 0;
     /* some object handling is only done if mtmp isn't a pet */
     if (!mtmp->mtame) {
-        /* for hero owned object on shop floor, mtmp is taking possession
-           and if it's eventually dropped in a shop, shk will claim it */
-        otmp->no_charge = 0;
         /* if monst is unseen, some info hero knows about this object becomes
            lost; continual pickup and drop by pets makes this too annoying if
            it is applied to them; when engulfed (where monster can't be seen