There is always a chance your pet might get lost. Studies show that 1 in 3 pets will get lost at some point in their lifetime and 90% of those never return home without proper identification. If your pet has identification, they’re more likely to be returned to you, it’s that simple. Wearing a collar and identification will also make your pet more approachable to strangers. Many more people are willing to stop and help a stray that appears to be a family pet. When providing your pet with proper identification, you shouldn’t rely on just one method to reunite with your lost pet.
Types of Pet Identification
Proper identification ensures that if your pet does get lost, it’s easy for whoever finds them to reach you and get your furry friend home safely. Increase your pet’s chances of being found by providing them with a combination of ID tags, a Microchip, and proper licensing.
- Pet ID tags are the fastest way to get your pet home. They are affordable, quick, and easy to create at a kiosk or order online and come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. An ID tag is the first thing someone will look for if they find a lost pet. Without a tag or collar, people might be hesitant to approach your pet and decrease their chance of rescue. Be sure to include the pet’s name, your name, and phone number to call.
- A Microchip is a completely safe device, about the size of a grain of rice, that is injected in between the shoulder blades of your pet. It uses radio frequency technology and contains a serial number that can be read by a scanner that veterinarians, shelters, and rescue organizations have at their offices. Be sure to register your pet and keep your information up-to-date.
- Local licensing can also help reunite you with your pet. The City of Stockton issues pet licences for residents within the city limits and unincorporated areas in San Joaquin County. Licences let someone who finds your pet know that they are current on their vaccinations, and informs animal control to whom the pet belongs, which could prevent your pet from having to go to the shelter.
Protect your pets and be at ease knowing that you have done everything to ensure their safe return, should they become unexpectedly lost. The combination of ID tags, a microchip, and proper licensing increases your chances of reuniting with your lost pet. Call Sierra Veterinary Hospital today to learn more about the importance of pet identification and let us help you provide the best protection for your pets!
