Our furry friends are part of the family, but unfortunately, they can cause us to worry by wandering off or escaping from open windows and gates.
Once outside, there’s plenty of other risks to factor in too, such as road traffic accidents and the possibility of them being stolen.
With pets more likely to go missing or be reported stolen during the summer, new research by pet insurance provider Insure Your Paws, has revealed that pet owners are now taking matters into their own hands to keep them safe.
Specialist research by the insurer found that almost a quarter (24%) of UK dog owners and one in five (19%) cat owners now use tags or trackers to help locate their furry friends if they go missing.
The research, conducted by Opinium among 1,000 UK cat and dog owners, also revealed that a fifth (19%) said they would take time off work to search for their pet and almost one in six (16%) would also consider using a drone search or pet detective.
What is the best way to track my pet?
The most popular type of pet tracking device is a GPS tracker. The small, lightweight device can be easily attached to your pet’s collar and uses satellite technology to pinpoint their location.
It can even link up to an app on your phone to see their movements throughout the day.
What to do when a pet goes missing?
When a pet goes missing, it’s wise to check any outbuildings and sheds thoroughly, while also checking in with neighbours first.
Alerting local veterinary practices and posting on community Facebook pages can also help, along with posting fliers in the area.
Is microchipping mandatory in the UK?
In the UK, all dogs and cats must be microchipped under the law. Dogs in England, Scotland, and Wales must be microchipped by the time they are eight weeks old.
All cat owners in England must have ensured that their cat was microchipped from June 2024.
Cats must be microchipped and registered by the time they’re 20 weeks old. This includes cats that usually only stay indoors.
How often should you walk your dog in the summer?
You can be fined up to £500 if your dog or cat is not microchipped when they need to be.
Andrew Simpson, head of pet at Insure Your Paws, said: “Losing a beloved pet is incredibly distressing, and it’s important to act quickly.
“We encourage owners to contact local vets, rescue centres, and animal shelters, as these are often the first places a lost pet may be taken.
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“It’s also a good idea to check your policy documents—some policies may include cover for things like advertising costs or rewards—and to see what steps you need to take to make a claim or access support.
“For example, Insure Your Paws now offers an optional extra ‘Find My Pet’ cover which provides financial assistance if your pet is lost, stolen or strays and is not found within 30 days.
“This includes up to £300 to support advertising costs and up to £1,000 towards the agreed reward.”
