Most of the police around here carry Kel-Tec mini 9s. It’s hot so you dress light. I doubt they shoot at animals that often. The trainers for the CCW classes also recommend the 9s with modern ammo as totally enough gun. Some of those who train people I know, say the .380 is fine with modern ammo.
After owning my first 44 mag for over 40 years, I have more than a passing experience with what different calibers and ammo type will do on animals .. never shot a human but shot towards more than one for reasons of purpose. I used to play with hunting handguns at long ranges, and the steel challenges that go with it.
I used to prefer revolvers, most of the handguns I have had over the years have been revolvers, but as my hunting has waned, mostly hogs, black bears and deer, I now prefer simple light weight self defense auto ‘appliance guns’ like Glocks and Kel-Tecs. But don’t let my 45s know.
The advantage with guns is their are lots of choices ... that you hope you never need making.
We had a little ruckus outside our house late last night, I doubt any knew my mini-9 Glock with night sights, was in my pocket. They left quietly.
While I was being humorous with the dog and cat remark, I really have nothing against the 9mm, in fact I have a .380 I am quite taken with( a semi auto S&W)and carry it on occasion. But, I carry my .44 special and my .45 long colt(rarely)more often than I do the .380. Any caliber is fine if you can shoot well, which is my point with the .44 special, it is extremely accurate and lends itself to head shots quite readily. Thanks for your comment.