Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Over 25,000 pets reported lost since 2023
A total of 4,763 dogs were reported missing to Petlog between 1 January 2023 and 10 June 2024.
Owners urged to ensure their details are up to date on microchipping databases.

More than 25,000 pets have been reported missing in the UK since January 2023, according to Petlog.

The data has been released to coincide with National Microchipping Month, which is held every June.

Petlog, a lost and found pet database managed by The Kennel Club, is urging owners to get their pets microchipped if they haven’t already and ensure their details are up to date.

According to Petlog's statistics, over 21,000 cats and nearly 5,000 dogs were reported missing between January 2023 and June 2024. During the same period, over 13,000 missing cats and more than 3,500 missing dogs were found, meaning that 62 per cent of cats and 74 per cent of dogs were reunited with their owners.

The South East of England saw the most pets go missing, with 4,000 cats and 800 dogs reported lost. At the other end of the scale, the North East of England saw the fewest pets reported missing.

As the data shows that cats are around nine times more likely to go missing compared to dogs, Petlog is reminding cat owners that it is now compulsory for pet cats in England to be microchipped before they reach the age of 20 weeks. Any owner found not to have microchipped their cat will have 21 days to comply or face a possible fine of up to £500.

Bill Lambert, spokesperson for Petlog, said: “Pet microchips help to reunite tens of thousands of much-loved pets with their owners, but it is not a magic wand and will not work if owners do not keep their contact details up to date with their microchipping database.

“A lot of families move house and change phone numbers without updating these details with their database, making it impossible to reunite their pets in a lot of cases.

“Checking and updating your details this National Microchipping Month is such a simple step but can make all the difference.”

Image © Shutterstock

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Survey launched to investigate EHV

News Story 1
 Zoetis has launched a new survey to identify management techniques for Equine Herpes Virus (EHV).

EHV is a contagious, airborne virus that can cause respiratory problems and severe diseases in horses and ponies. It spreads among horses over short distances, direct contact and through shared equipment.

The survey will explore current knowledge and management practices with EHV in the UK. It is quick to complete and participants could win one of 10 equine first aid kits.

Complete the survey here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
WSAVA launches pet travel guidance factsheet

A new pet travel guidance factsheet for veterinary professionals and caregivers has been developed by the WSAVA in collaboration with the World Veterinary Association.

The Dog and Cat Welfare During Transport factsheet provides step-by-step guidance for all stages of a journey, from pre-travel checklists to post-travel care.

Brachycephalic breeds or animals prone to travel-related anxiety are given special focus in this guide, which also provides links to IATA container regulation and WSAVA vaccination guidelines.