Pets - Our Furry Friends and the Importance of Keeping Them Safe

In many cultures, we consider our pets to be part of the family. They provide companionship, love, and affection, but unfortunately, they can also cause us concern by wandering off or escaping from open windows and gates. These risks are not limited to the time they spend indoors, as they pose additional dangers once outside. For instance, they may be at risk of being hit by a vehicle, or worse, they may be stolen. Moreover, the summer months bring with them the risk of increased heat, which can lead to dehydration and heatstroke. With the possibility of our pets being reported missing or stolen on the rise, many pet owners are taking proactive measures to ensure their safety. According to a recent survey conducted by Insure Your Paws, a significant number of pet owners are now using tags or trackers to help locate their pets if they go missing. The survey found that:

24% of UK dog owners and 19% of cat owners use tags or trackers to keep their pets safe.
19% of cat owners would consider taking time off work to search for their pet, and 16% would use a drone search or pet detective.
One in five (19%) cat owners would consider microchipping their pet, while one in six (16%) of dog owners would also consider it.

The most popular type of pet tracking device is a GPS tracker, which is a small, lightweight device that can be attached to your pet’s collar. It uses satellite technology to pinpoint the pet’s location and can even link up to an app on your phone to provide a live map of their movements. When a pet goes missing, it is wise to follow a systematic approach to locate them. This includes:

Checking outbuildings and sheds thoroughly.
Checking with your neighbors first.
Alerting local veterinary practices and posting on community Facebook pages.
Posting fliers in the area.

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, while all cat owners in England must ensure that their cat is microchipped from June 2024. Cats must be microchipped and registered by the time they are 20 weeks old. **Microchipping: A Mandatory Requirement**

Microchipping is a procedure where a small chip is inserted under the pet’s skin, which contains the pet’s identification details. In the UK, it is mandatory for all dogs and cats to be microchipped under the law.

Dog owners are advised to take the necessary precautions to prevent their pets from wandering off or escaping. This includes:

Educating your pet on basic obedience and training.
Using a secure fence or gate.
Keeping an eye on your pet at all times.
Using a GPS tracker or collar with a built-in safety feature.

In the summer months, it is essential to take extra precautions to ensure your pet’s safety. This includes:

Providing adequate shade and water.
Limiting exercise to prevent heat exhaustion.
Providing a cool place for your pet to rest.
Using a pet-friendly umbrella or hat to protect your pet from the sun.

The best way to track your pet is through the use of a GPS tracker. However, it is also essential to have a plan in place in case your pet goes missing. This includes:

Having a list of contact numbers and information about your pet.
Knowing the nearest veterinary practice and shelter to your home.
Having a plan for how to care for your pet if they are lost.

As Andrew Simpson, head of pet at Insure Your Paws, said: “Losing a beloved pet is incredibly distressing, and it’s essential 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.”

Insure Your Paws offers an optional extra cover, “Find My Pet”, 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. In conclusion, keeping our furry friends safe is a top priority. By taking proactive measures such as microchipping, using GPS trackers, and keeping a safe and secure home, we can help reduce the risk of our pets going missing or being stolen. It is also essential to have a plan in place in case our pet does go missing, including having a list of contact numbers and information about our pet. By working together, we can ensure that our pets remain safe and happy.