Warning of increased risk of summer disappearances

Risks increasing in Summer

The risks of losing or having your beloved pet stolen rise dramatically in June, July and August, compared with December, January and February, according to lost & found pet microchipping database, Petlog, which is managed by Kennel Club.  Incidence of missing or stolen pets has steadily increased over the last 3 years with 63% more disappearances in Summer than Winter.

In 2024, amongst pets reported missing were:

•    1,650 dogs
•    13,197 cats
•    5 horses
•    7 rabbits

A staggering 79% more cases in Summer than Winter, although these are only the missing pets which had been microchipped…

Microchipping

A microchip, like a grain of rice, is injected under the skin on the back of the neck, becoming a unique identifier, linked to the owner’s contact details on a database.  See Agria’s blog on Microchipping Myths https://www.agriapet.co.uk/guides-and-advice/microchipping-myths/

Vets, animal charities or local authorities can scan any found animal for a microchip, contacting the owner for a happy reunion.  June is National Microchipping Month, and owners are being urged to make sure the details held on their database are up to date, so they can be swiftly reunited with their pets if they become parted  “I can’t stress how important it is to make sure you keep your details up to date,” says Jackie Taylor from Peddymark. “It is very easy to do; many companies send regular reminders. It can help prevent so much distress.” 

Legal requirements

It’s currently a legal requirement for all dogs in the UK to be microchipped, and recent legislation in England means all cats over the age of 20 weeks must be too.  However, it makes sense to have all your pets microchipped, as losing a beloved animal, with little prospect of finding them again, is a heart-breaking experience.

Changes of lifestyle and routine

It’s not so surprising that the risks of losing or having a pet stolen increase in the Summer months.  Generally, we’re all outdoors more, with doors and windows open; going on longer walks; picnicking; camping; spending whole days out, often far away from home.  Routines change in the Summer with finer weather encouraging holidaying in the UK, animals being put out to graze more, and long school holidays of visitors coming and going, with small people perhaps not quite so careful with the gate etc.

Sinister activity

Post-Covid sees more sinister activity with dogs, especially, stolen to order; French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs and Chihuahuas being amongst the most coveted.  This might be for resale, unregulated breeding or, more alarmingly, use in illegal dog fighting.

So, microchip your four legged friends; keep your contact details updated on your microchipping database; and increase vigilance and security around your pet.  And then have a lovely Summer together!!!