Nobody wants to think about their pets going missing, but it’s something that many of us will have to face at one time or another, as difficult as it is.
In fact, a total of 1.7 million pets disappeared in the US across all of 2024, whether they’re escaping the best dog leashes or simply running outside, according to a new study. Pet911, the international lost pet recovery system established in 2017, analyzed over 1.5 million lost and found pet records to get some valuable insights about the pets that go missing, and it makes for stark reading.
Summer is the most dangerous season for pets to go missing, perhaps because people and pets often spend more time outdoors, with 45% of missing dog and 40% of missing cat cases occurring this time of year. Spring is next with 31% and 30% of cases respectively, whereas in winter the figures are just 7% and 8%.
July is the most dangerous month for pet disappearances overall, and there’s a big spike on the 4th of July with a 31% increase in lost dog reports. This could be because fireworks displays are so common and can spook even the calmest animals, and because outdoor gatherings and disrupted routines mean that doors and gates can be left unattended – here’s what to do if you find a lost dog yourself.
Most cases of missing dogs (75%) come from rural areas, too, while Texas was the state with the most missing dog cases last year – 82,515 dogs went missing in the Lone Star State. New Jersey had the most missing cat cases, meanwhile, with 18,580.
Huskies make up 7% of all lost dogs, which could in part be explained by their desire to go off and hunt. They’re followed by Chihuahuas with 6%, however, which is perhaps more surprising given that they’re often quite loyal and like staying by their humans.
Siamese cats make up the highest proportion of lost cat reports, with 8%, while tuxedo cats – although not a breed themselves – are also among the cats who go missing the most.
While having an animal go missing is one of the worst things a pet parent can contend with, it’s more likely than not that they’ll return. Looking at the recovery rates, 63% of dogs and 52% of cats come back home.
If you’re faced with a missing dog, these 10 steps to find a lost dog may come in useful. Here’s how to find a lost cat, too
