Thousands of dogs become lost every day. It is important to make sure your dog has proper identification in case he/she becomes lost. With a proper identification, there are far better chances your dog will return home sooner and safer. There are a few different ways to id your dog – collar with id tag, microchip and tattoo.

Collar and ID tag:
An id tag attached to a collar is the most common and economical way to identify your dog. A pet id tag usually cost between $3 and $10, depending on the size, shape or material you choose and you can personalize it pretty much anyway you want. One of the downside of the id tag is it is easily removed – accidentally or intentionally. One of the solutions to such situations is to microchip your dog.

Microchip:
A microchip is a tiny computer chip that contains unique identification number programmed into it. The chip, about the size of a rice grain, is injected under the skin, usually between the shoulder blades. The procedure can be done at participating veterinarian’s office. Once injected, the identification number can not be lost or altered. Many shelters and veterinarians are equipped with microchip scanners, so if they pick your dog up as a stray, they will first scan your dog to see if he/she has microchip implanted. Once the number is read, they can contact the microchip’s manufacture’s registry or national database to get information on the dog’s owner. The cost of microchip varies, but usually runs about a little over $50.

Tattoo:
Tattooing is another way of permanent identification. Tattooing can be applied at the veterinarian’s office or by a skilled individual at tattoo clinic. The procedure can be done in a few minutes with little pain. Anesthesia is usually unnecessary, but if your dog is having other procedures such as spay/neuter or teeth cleaning, it may be a good idea to have it done then. Once the tattoo is applied, be sure to register the number with an organization like National Dog Registry.

Permanent identification is also a good way to protect your dog from a pet thief. For example, if a pet thief tries to sell a dog with microchip or tattoo to a research laboratory, the lab will not accept the dog. Even if your dog has microchip or tattoo, be sure to have your dog wear a collar and id tag.