Dog Identification

Because your dog may occasionally escape and get lost in unfamiliar territory, it's a good idea to have some kind of pet identification on them. It's also an important step to take against puppy theft.

Even when a lost pet is picked up and placed in an animal shelter, it typically has little chance of being reunited with it's original owner, unless it is wearing some form of identification. While this simple precaution may not prevent your pet from being lost or stolen, a permanent ID may enhance it's chances of recovery.

Dog Tattooing
Tattooing is a painless procedure provided by most veterinarians, it involves inking a special mark or identifying code on the inside of a dogs ear or the inside of a cats thigh.

Dog Micro chipping
Microchip technology is becoming more widespread and in some states compulsory. To use such an ID system the owner has a veterinarian inject a tiny microchip under the skin, usually between the shoulder blades. The chip reflects radio waves emitted by a hand held scanner which reads the microchip number. The number is held at a national register in a computer database for easy identification. Remember to advise the register when you change address, the system is only as good as the information it holds. It's worth noting, when a stray cat or dog are to be put down by a shelter the animal is always first checked for the presence of a microchip. Your veterinarian will be happy to provide more details for you.

Dog Collars and Dog ID tags
Collars and tags can be lost or removed but they are a great addition to tattooing or microchips. They provide an easy and quick way for a shelter to identify your pet, and make a great fashion statement. When choosing a collar for your dog you should always take care to purchase an adjustable style to allow for growth and correct fitting. A suitable cat collar should consist of a breakaway section or stretch elastic so the animal can escape without choking if the collar snags on a tree branch or other object.