I.D. Tags
A post at the Daily Breeze reminds us why an old standby is still a great way to protect our pets…
There’s no denying that microchips are amazing. The technology by which a small electronic chip encoded with an ID number that links to an owner’s contact information. The chip is embedded just under a pet’s skin has been a huge boon to getting lost pets returned to their owners.
The advantage: Once implanted, the microchip provides a permanent form of identification that cannot be lost or easily removed. If your pet doesn’t have one, get one.
But while all dogs and cats should have microchips, don’t forget about the humble ID tag that dangles from a collar (or collars imprinted with the information).
They may be old-fashioned, but they’re often the fastest way home for a pet who gets out and is on the run. I’ve returned several dogs in my neighborhood (provided they come to strangers, some simply won’t) by simply looking on a tag and either calling the phone number or taking the animal directly to the owners’ address.
Quick, simple, and no fuss.
While microchips are now indispensable, they require the finder to go the extra mile to have the chip scanned. Some will, others won’t.
And according to to the ASPCA, only 33 percent of owners say they “always” have ID tags on their dogs and cats.
You can make your own tags at engraving machines found at Petco and other pet chain stores. But for higher quality — and more distinctive — tags, check out the ones available on the Internet.