You never know when a situation might come up. Make sure your pet can easily be found!
Some websites claim that one-third of pets will go missing within a five-year period. You may also have heard that dramatically low percentages of pets (1-5%) are found. Both ideas are false. According to studies by Weiss et al. 2012 and Lord et al. (2007a), only 14-15% of dogs and cats become lost within five years, and well over 50% of them get found. Many owners find their pets again somewhere in the neighborhood or because the dog or cat returns home, but pet identification makes the chances of reunion far more likely.
About Collars
The collar is a universal symbol for pet identification. If your dog or cat has one, people instantly know it belongs to someone. It never hurts to be safer than sorry; pets can wear collars whether indoors or outdoors, since it is possible for them to slip out of the door at nearly any time. Be sure to find collars that will not snag on anything like branches, metal, furniture, or other objects easily. To avoid a jangly collar, you can have your contact information implemented on the band rather than hanging from it.
The information to include is limited, but one may include the following:
- Name of the pet
- One or two phone numbers
- City and state of residence
- The pet’s medical conditions if applicable
- Personal message
Giving the name of your cat or dog adds a personal element and will more likely help your pet out than without it. Include your phone number and perhaps an alternate phone number as well. For example, you could put both your home and mobile numbers. Include your location, though it is up to you whether or not to write your home address. If your pet has any specific medical needs, adding this to the contact information can save your pet’s life. Alternatively, you may let strangers know how to handle your pet with notes like “Bites” or “I’m friendly!”
About Microchipping
The negative aspect of collars is that your pet may lose them. While a collar is a primary means for pet identification, microchipping is the safe and secure method to make sure your pet can be found more easily. During a regular checkup visit, a vet can insert the microchip, small as a grain of rice, under your dog or cat’s skin. This chip contains a number code that only your pet has. Animal shelters generally scan any animal they receive upon entry, and most veterinary clinics have scanners as well. To learn more about this safe mode of identification, ask Everhart Veterinary Medicine!
Trust the Care of Your Pet to the Professionals at Everhart Veterinary Medicine!
At Everhart Veterinary Medicine, our veterinary professionals strive to provide your pet with the very best of veterinary care. We believe that the best care for your pet should be provided by experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable veterinary professionals. With two Maryland locations in both Baltimore and Pasadena, we are always ready to welcome your pet as a new patient! Give us a call today at 410-355-3131 or 410-793-7670! For more information, as well as updates on veterinary news and topics, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, or Pinterest!