Owners of popular cat and dog breeds have been warned about the increased likelihood of their furry companions going missing. A recent study conducted by a prominent insurance comparison site has shed light on the breeds that are most prone to getting lost, prompting a call for owners to take preventive measures such as microchipping their pets. Rhys Jones, a pet insurance expert at Go.Compare, emphasized the importance of microchipping in reuniting lost pets with their owners. The findings of the study have raised awareness among pet owners about the risks of their beloved animals going missing.
The study, carried out by Go.Compare pet insurance, analysed data from the National Pet Register to identify the breeds most commonly reported as missing. Among over 50 dog breeds, terriers emerged as the breed group with the highest number of missing dogs. The top ten list of lost dogs includes terriers, crossbreeds, Jack Russells, and spaniels, with Yorkshire terriers and border terriers being the most frequently registered missing dogs. On the other hand, cats accounted for the majority of missing pets nationwide, with almost 150,000 reported as lost across the UK.
According to the study, out of 25 reported cat breeds, domestic shorthairs or moggies topped the list of missing cats. Other breeds such as tabbies, British shorthairs, Bengals, Siamese, and ragdolls were also among the most commonly reported missing felines despite their distinctive features. A law mandating the microchipping of all cats, even those that predominantly stay indoors, came into effect last summer. The law stipulates that cats must be microchipped before reaching 20 weeks of age, with owners facing fines of up to £500 for non-compliance. Microchipping has proven to be an effective method in quickly identifying and reuniting lost pets with their owners.
Microchipped cats are over twice as likely to be reunited with their owners, making it a valuable tool in pet identification and recovery. Vets can promptly contact owners if a microchipped cat is injured, and the process also aids in recovering stolen cats. The mandatory microchipping of cats highlights the significance of preventive measures in safeguarding pets against the distress of going missing. Owners are being encouraged to adhere to the microchipping requirements and ensure that their contact details are up to date in the pet microchipping database.
The study’s findings underscore the need for pet owners to take proactive steps in protecting their beloved animals from the risks of going missing. In addition to microchipping, pet insurance is recommended as a crucial safeguard against unforeseen circumstances. By being proactive in implementing these measures, pet owners can help prevent the heartbreak of losing their furry friends and increase the chances of successful reunions in the event that separation occurs. The study serves as a valuable reminder for pet owners to prioritise the safety and security of their furry companions through responsible pet ownership practices.