Identification
Protect Your Pet with Identification
Every year thousands of animals end up in adoption centers and animal control agencies because they are lost. Nearly all of the time, the best way an animal will be found and reunited with his/her owner is if they have identification.
Collar and Tag
Every animal, even an indoor cat must have a collar and identification tag. This is the least expensive way to identify your pet and works the best. Put your name and phone number on the tag – this reassurance is yours for a minimal cost. The simplicity of it works because anyone who finds your pet has the information to take action!
Micro-chipping
Growing in popularity is micro-chipping. A micro-chip is a device that a vet inserts under the skin of your pet – it is about the size of a grain of rice. It has a tracking number and is registered with a company. Ideally, if your pet is found by a shelter or vet hospital, it will be scanned and your number will come up. The issue around microchips is that you must register again if you move.
With each adoption, the SPCA sells microchips as an add-on for $12. The retail value of this service is between $35 – $60. If you want to buy a microchip for your new pet, the adopted pet will return to our exam room for the insertion of the chip. Then, you will receive all the registration information and you must activate the chip from home via the phone or internet. There is no refund for the chip if the animal is returned. Ask your adoption counselor for more details.
