Missing Pets: Facts, Figures and Pet Technology beyond the Microchip

The American Humane Association estimates that 1 out of 3 pets become lost at some point in their lifetime and close to 10 million dogs and cats are lost or stolen in the US every single year and according to the Coalition for Reuniting Pets and Families, less than 23% of lost pets in the U.S. are reunited with their owners. 

In 2009 a study of more than 7,700 stray animals that wound up at the ASPCA showed that dogs without microchips were returned to their owners 2.2% of the time, whereas microchipped dogs were returned to their owners 52.2% of the time.

Over the past few year, increase in Pet Trackers have brought in industry leaders to address Lost Pet Tracking from Garmin, Marco Polo ranging from $ 299 - $ 999 to some of the mid-priced models including Whistle, ProximityPHM and Tractive that range from $55-$145 and lower priced models like BuzzyStore, Cube in the  $ 9 - $ 19.99 range.

Technologies vary as the Radio signal trackers tend to be in the higher price range but they offer up to 7-10 miles coverage area and do not have any monthly charges. Cellular trackers are most popular that are in the mid-priced range, however they do carry monthly recurring cellular connection charges. Some of the lower priced models are based on WiFi or Bluetooth technology that makes them unusable for pets that run away and when location tracking is needed. 

Finally, here's a chart illustrating some use case scenarios that may help you:

One-third of all dogs and cats in the United States are reported missing in their lifetimes, more than 80% are never found, and countless others wind up in shelters euthanized.

Please check with your Vet Clinic and inquire if a Pet Collar Device should be used to protect your pet if lost!