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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.”

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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
NSA webinar explores sheep tailing and castration

The National Sheep Association (NSA) is to host a free webinar on the castration and tail docking of lambs.

The webinar, 'Understanding the tailing and castration consultation: A guide for sheep farmers', will be hosted online on Monday, 2 March 2026 at 7.30pm.

It comes during a government consultation into the methods used for these procedures. Farmers are encouraged to engage before the consultation period closes on Monday, 9 March 2026.

The webinar offers clear and actionable guidance to support farmers to contribute meaningfully to the consultation and prepare for potential changes.

On the panel will be former SVS president Kate Hovers, farmer and vet Ann Van Eetvelt and SRUC professor in Animal Health and Veterinary Sciences Cathy Dwyer. Each panel member will utilise their own specialism and expertise to evaluate risks and outcomes to sheep farming.

Find out more about the webinar on the NSA website.