Identification for Your Pet

Does your pet know your name and address? You can teach your child your name and address or tuck a note with the information into his or her pocket. But your pet can't tell a police officer your address or pull out an ID card.

The only place your pet can carry the information that will get him/her safely home is around his/her neck. A collar and tag with your name and address and an up-to-date license from your local animal control department can help get your pet home safely. Include your cell phone number and perhaps an out of town emergency contact number on the tag. Safeguard your pet with a collar, tag, and license.

For a more permanent form of ID try a microchip. These chips are injected under the skin. Shelters and veterinarians can scan for the chip and assist with getting the lost pet back home.

In the event of a crisis or disaster, your pet's identification will be utmost important:

• collar and tag that includes your cell number and an out of town emergency contact
• photograph with description of your pet (distinguishing marks); in fact, if your cell phone has a camera feature, take and store some photos of your pets there
• microchip - please keep your information current with the microchip company
• find a trusted neighbor to help should you not be able to get home during a crisis (read more about disaster preparedness)