Collars, tags, licenses and microchips are a big part of properly identifying your pet. These items can also increase the chances that your pet will return home if he/she ever becomes lost. A collar demonstrates to the finder of a lost animal that he/she is owned and cared for. However, a reunion is more likely if the collar includes up to date identification, such as tag with the owner’s name or phone number. According to the San Diego Department of Animal Services, licenses are required for all dogs over the age of four months. The license tag must be securely fastened to the dog’s collar and worn at all times. These tags provide a uniform system of identification, allowing finders of lost dogs to access the owner’s information. This information is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year by telephone and website. While collars and tags are great forms of identification, it is important to realize that they too, can become lost. For a permanent solution to pet retrieval and identification, we recommend microchipping. A microchip is a tiny device about the size of a grain of rice that is implanted under the pet’s skin. This is done with a needle, so the process is much like getting an injection. Scanners at veterinary clinics, humane societies and animal shelters across the country can detect these chips and a national registry permits the return of microchipped pets throughout the United States and Canada. Remember, however, that microchipping alone is not enough. You must register the microchip with the manufacturer and keep your contact information current, especially if you move to a new address or change your phone number. At The Drake Center, we recommend using a combination of these identification forms. Together, they could help save your pet!