Are Your Pets Properly Identified?

If your pet happened to get lost today, how would they find their way home? Are you relying on their excellent sense of direction, or does their identification give them a little extra insurance to get home safely?

The basic form of identification that all pets should have is a collar. Collars mean pets have humans, which means there’s a lower chance they’ll be dropped off at an animal shelter. Your pet’s collar should include information like their name, your name and contact information, your veterinarian’s information, and possibly reward information if your pet is found. If your pet has any special care instructions because of medical problems, this should also be included, though you might need a separate tag. Check your pet’s collar regularly, making sure it doesn’t get too worn and that the information is always legible and up-to-date.

A permanent form of identification is microchipping. A microchip is a small device the size of a grain of rice that is implanted between your pet’s shoulder blades. This chip contains a unique number which can be read with a low frequency radio signal by a microchip scanner.

However, without registration, a microchip is useless. Through registration, each microchip is attached to the owner’s contact information in a universal database. If a pet is lost, the microchip number can be scanned and used to find the owner. Just like your pet’s collar, it’s important to keep this registration information updated with your current information.

While your pet’s identification is always important, it’s even more important if you plan on traveling with your pet. There’s no way to guarantee they won’t escape out the car door or while you’re walking around the city. Consider putting your vacation contact information, as well as a friend’s contact information who knows your vacation itinerary, on your pet’s collar. Microchips can be easily read at shelters and veterinarians across the U.S., with the microchip database always available for fast identification.

Statistics say 1 in 3 pets will become lost in their lifetime – even if your pet is one of them, make sure there’s a way for them to come home again too!

The materials, information and answers provided through this website are not intended to replace the medical advice or services of a qualified veterinarian or other pet health care professional. Consult your own veterinarian for answers to specific medical questions, including diagnosis, treatment, therapy or medical attention.

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