National Pet ID Week is April 14-20th and it’s a great time to make sure that your pet is properly identified. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), only 33 percent of pet owners regularly use identification tags on their pets. Statistics show that one in three pets get lost at least once during their lifetime and without identification, the chances of being reunited to their owner are quite low.
According to Dr. Emily Weiss, vice president of shelter research and development for the ASPCA, “…personalized ID tags that contain contact information for the dog or cat owner can help assure lost animals are quickly reunited with their owners.” With so many options to choose from for identifying your pet, there is no reason not to wear I.D. at all times.
The Classic Connoisseur
The classic metal collar tag is a popular option, easily customized with your pet’s name, your phone number, address, and even your vet’s clinic details. There are styles to suit every personality and budget, from playful tags to those with QR codes to solid gold and jewel-encrusted models. Whatever your fancy, there’s bound to be an option that appeals to both you and your pet.
The High-Tech Hound
If you’re looking for something a little more high tech, you might consider the USB collar tag. Available in a variety of colors, shapes, and designs, the USB collar stores all of your pet’s care and contact information in an easily accessible format. These waterproof tags can even store photos, information about the commands they know, and details about their diet, medications, and health. The biggest drawback to this relatively economical option is that the collars may still get lost.
The Hip and Chipped
If you are looking for an identification solution that won’t get lost or wear out, check into the microchip. These tiny chips, smaller than a grain of rice, are implanted beneath your pet’s skin in a quick procedure that doesn’t even require anesthesia. All kinds of pets can be micro chipped, from cats and dog to reptiles and birds. Each device has its own unique number and is recorded in a database along with contact information and often, details about the veterinarian clinic. It is important to point out that a microchip is only valuable if you have correct contact information on file. Should you move or change phone numbers, the microchip company will update your contact information for a small fee.
Even if you choose to microchip your pet, a traditional pet collar and ID tag are still recommended.
Celebrate National Pet ID week by adorning your faithful companion with a new collar and ID tag and make sure that it’s up-to-date, easy-to-read, and always on!