Proper identification:

All pets should be properly identified, even those that are not let outside on a routine basis. "Indoor Only" cats and dogs will often panic if they get out of the house, and may not come back if called.

Proper identification means that pets should always have some sort of easily found, legible, and (if possible) permanent id on them at all times, not just on the collar that they wear when they go for a walk.

There are several ways to identify your pet. Young puppies and kittens should wear collars with attached identification or be microchipped. Pet collars should have an engraved tag or plastic tag with an insertable label that you can write your name and telephone number on. It’s also a good idea to write your name and number on the inside of the pet’s collar in permanent marker.

All pets can have a microchip implanted. A microchip is a small device that is implanted under the skin between the shoulder blades and is detected by a special scanner. Each microchip carries an individual code that can be traced back to the owner. Most veterinary clinics and animal shelters have these scanners (all of the clinics and shelters in the Fraser Valley have them).

A tattoo is another permanent means of identification. An individual number is tattooed in your pet’s ear. This tattoo is safe, permanent, and is traceable anywhere in British Columbia through your veterinary hospital. A tattoo can be done any time your pet is under anesthetic for any procedure – the perfect time is during the spay or neuter surgery at about 6 months of age.

A good description is priceless:

Make sure that you keep a complete written description on hands in case your pet gets lost. Include his age, colour, approximate weight and size, and any distinctive markings such as white spots or a short tail. Keep a written list of all identification, such as microchip numbers, tattooes and type and colour of ID tags and collars. Take photos of your pet every year. If your pet has distinctive colouration or markings, make sure you get photos from all angles.  Remember that your veterinarian probably has a very good description of your pet, including weight and possibly digital photos.

Teach your pet its name, and to come when it’s called! Use food to teach this!

Keep your pet under supervision at all times, or properly confined. All cats ands dogs should be indoors for the night. Remember to keep them in during noisy or frightening events like Halloween, parades or thunderstorms.

If your pet does get lost, please contact us so that we can help you get him back! Please also see our page on "What to do if your pet is lost".