How Many Pets Go Missing Each Year in Australia?

Each year, thousands of pets go missing in Australia. This can be a devastating experience for pet owners, who often feel like they have lost a member of their family.

The Statistics

According to the Australian Animal Welfare League, approximately 10,000 pets go missing in Australia each year. Of these, only 10% are ever reunited with their owners.

Dogs are the most commonly reported missing pets, followed by cats. Other animals that go missing include rabbits, birds, and reptiles.

Why Do Pets Go Missing?

There are many reasons why pets may go missing. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Escaping from their homes
• Being stolen
• Becoming lost while on a walk or playing outside
• Being abandoned by their owners

What to Do If Your Pet Goes Missing

If your pet goes missing, there are a few things you can do to try to find them:

• Search the area where your pet was last seen.
• Ask your neighbors if they have seen your pet.
• Post flyers around your neighborhood with your pet's photo and contact information.
• Contact your local animal shelter and let them know that your pet is missing.
• Use social media to spread the word about your missing pet.

Prevention

There are a few things you can do to help prevent your pet from going missing:

• Make sure your pet is microchipped and that the microchip information is up to date.
• Keep your pet on a leash when you are outside.
• Make sure your pet has a secure place to stay when you are not home.
• Train your pet to come when called.

Conclusion

Losing a pet can be a traumatic experience. However, by taking steps to prevent your pet from going missing and by acting quickly if your pet does go missing, you can increase the chances of being reunited with your beloved companion.