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

More pets go missing during summer, data reveals
The database saw an 81 per cent increase in reports over summer 2021.
The Kennel Club urges owners to microchip and check details.

Petlog lost and found pet database, run by The Kennel Club, is warning owners to be vigilant as data reveals more pets go missing during summertime.

This message comes as National Microchipping Month begins, and Petlog hopes that the data revealed will encourage more pet owners to microchip their pets.

Compiling five years' worth of data, Petlog found that the months of June, July and August typically see a 63 per cent increase in pets reported as missing or stolen, in comparison to the winter months.

A sharp increase was seen last year, with 81 per cent more pets reported as lost and stolen over summer 2021. 

Bill Lambert, Petlog spokesperson explained: “We aren’t surprised that more pets go missing during summer.

“Routines change, children are home for the holidays, owners go away or abroad, and we’re spending more time out and about in gardens, parks and perhaps exploring new and less familiar outdoor spaces. 

“However, it is crucial that owners ensure their pets are safe; microchipping your pet and registering them on a 24/7 reunification database like Petlog, which holds a keeper’s address and phone number, is such a simple step to take but can genuinely be a life-saver, and gives peace of mind.”

Dogs are legally required to be microchipped in the UK, and the Government has announced that the practice will also be compulsory for cats in due course. 

Mr Lambert added: “This National Microchipping Month, we want to get more pets microchipped and more owners checking their details are up to date, so if the worst were to happen, and as the likelihood increases during the summer, you have the best chance of being reunited with your furry family member.”

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

Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.