Identification For Your Dog

The majority of lost dogs taken in by the local shelters or SPCA arrive with no identification - no collars with licenses or owners' particulars on a tag, and not microchipped. There is thus no simple way for the shelters or SPCA to trace the dog's owners.

Some owners do not even report to the appropriate authorities that their pets are missing. Sadly dogs brought in that do not match descriptions provided by owners, and which have no identification tags or microchips, may be put to sleep if they are not selected for adoption.

If your dog goes missing, your chances of finding it are increased if it is licensed with the local authorities, and is wearing its license tag on its collar. In fact, displaying the license tag on your dog's collar at all times is a legal requirement, punishable by law if not done.

Also engrave your name and address or contact number on a separate identification tag and add that to your dog's collar. These ID tags are available from pet shops and are an easy way for anyone who finds your dog to get in touch with you.

Microchipping is a permanent means of identification and additional safeguard. Your veterinarian can carry out this procedure. The microchip is very small (about the size of a grain of rice). After the procedure, register your dog's microchip number with your local authorities - SPCA.