Summer linked to rise in missing dogs, says Petlog

Petlog, one of the UK’s largest lost and found pet databases, has warned that pets are significantly more likely to go missing during the summer months. As National Microchipping Month begins, the organisation is urging dog owners to check their contact details are up to date and ensure their dogs are secure during warmer weather and holiday periods.

Analysis of three years of Petlog data shows a 63% rise in pets reported missing or stolen during June, July and August, compared to the winter months of December through February. In 2024, around 1,600 dogs were reported missing or stolen during the summer. Overall, summer 2023 saw 79% more lost pet reports than in winter.

Petlog, run by The Kennel Club, reunites lost pets with their owners through microchip records and is behind National Microchipping Month, which runs throughout June. The organisation attributes the seasonal rise in disappearances to changes in routines, more time spent outdoors, and families travelling or entertaining guests.

“Summer often sees changes to routines, children at home for the holidays, owners going away and generally more time spent outdoors exploring new places with our pets,” said Petlog spokesperson Helen Fox. “With this, it’s crucial that owners don't forget about their much-loved pet. Ensuring they are microchipped and registered with a 24/7 reunification database like Petlog is an easy but essential measure that can make all the difference and offers vital peace of mind.”

The importance of up-to-date microchip details was highlighted in the case of Bailey, an 18-year-old cat from Stirling, who was found over two years after going missing. After being recognised in a local social media post, a vet confirmed his identity using his Petlog-registered microchip. His owner, Heather McLachlan, said: “The vet confirmed through his chip that it was him, which was such a massive relief. We never thought this would happen, especially at his age, but he is home, the wanderer returns!”

Microchipping is a legal requirement for all dogs in England, Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland. It is also compulsory for cats in England. The microchip, which is about the size of a grain of rice, is implanted under the skin and contains a unique number that links to the owner's contact details in a registered database.

Petlog advises dog owners to check that garden fences and gates are secure, monitor their pets when routines change, and remain vigilant, particularly when hosting visitors or spending time away. Owners travelling abroad should update their holiday contact details on their pet’s record in advance.

Helen Fox added, “Prevention is of course the most effective approach – pet owners should ensure that their gardens and homes are secure, and remain vigilant of their pet’s whereabouts, especially when children or visitors are present, routines change or when spending time away from home. If you are travelling abroad, it is advisable to update your holiday details on your pet’s microchip record ahead of time. Petlog, as a member of the European Pet Network, can assist in reuniting owners and pets who go missing while abroad.”