When Pets Get Lost

Losing your pet can be a down right heart stopper. Just this past weekend I received a call on my cell. The caller said, "I think I have your dogs." That is enough to cause shear panic. Why would this person have my dogs, I just left them and they were fine. It turns out that Missy and Duke found that the gate, at my girlfriends home, was not secure and made the great escape. I was very thankful to the person who actually stopped their car and took the time to collect them and call me but I am really thankful that they both had identification tags. Of course, both of them are chipped but having contact information on the pet is extremely important. There are many reasons pets get lost. Here is is "Ten of the main reasons you can lose your pet."

With summer upon us there will be many opportunities to be separated from your pet. This is a good time to check and make sure that your dog or cat has proper identification displayed on its collar. Make that extra effort. Invest in a good tag or collar that features a plate to engrave your pets name and most important your contact information. Two of my favorite locations to get a quality name tag or collar are Fetch in Westlake Hills. Cynthia is an awesome person and is very helpful in choosing quality merchandise. Another good shop is Dogadillo in Bee Cave. The Conrads are great folks and always have a variety of collars, tags and other pet supplies.

And then there is chipping. Granted, if someone finds your pet it is important that the proper identification is displayed on the dog but, having your dog chipped is the best investment you can make and the return will be invaluable. There are several companies that offer this service including most all vets. Getting your dog or cat chipped costs next to nothing and I have heard of some very happy endings all because the owner took the time to have the animal chipped. Scanning for a chip is one of the first things a vet or shelter will do when your pet is found and turned in as a stray.

So, if you haven't already, put these at the top of your summer to do list. Hopefully, you WILL get that call, "I think I have your Dog." Sounds a little scary but as a pet owner, it will be music to your ears and you will be glad your pet had the proper identification.