Tracking a lost pet

Just a few days ago a friend of ours was in a severe roll-over car accident. She was bringing her dog to the dog park when her car was hit. After the collision, her car skidded and ended up on the roof. Passersby got her out of the car, which allthe windows were blown out of, and she was then able to coax her scared puppy out of the car.  Thankfully no one was seriously hurt, but the whole situation got me thinking of what would have happened if her dog ran away from the car after the accident? Our friend was taken to the hospital to be checked out and because we live close we were able to quickly pick up the dog, who was in a police car at the accident scene, and bring him to the vet to be checked out. The puppy was scared but happy to be with some one he knew.

Thankfully, the puppy stayed with the car, but what would happen if ran away. Here ways that I have increased the chances of my dog Daisy of being return to me if she ever was lost.  First, she has all the proper licenses and dog tags on her collar. Secondly, our Vet micro-chipped her using a RESQ chip.  This microchip is inserted under her skin between her shoulder blades and emits a ID number when scanned. I have added my contact information and information about Daisy on Petlink.net Most Vets, animal control officers, and rescue facilities have the ability to scan a microchipped animal.  The microchip and registration cost about 30 dollars, well worth it especially if you travel often or your animal sheds is collars like Houdini.

The most recent addition has been adding Pet Hub ID tag.  The ID tag has the pet's name and a website on one side and on the other side has a QR bar code on the other.  The QR barcode could be scanned using software that is available on many smart phones, based on other recommendations I use Neoreader there are others as well.  The URL and QR barcode point to a website that can be easily updated once a pet is lost and more contact information can be provided. The Pet Hub ID tag is currently in beta and during that time period they are giving away 2,000 FREE tags.  Now in all honesty I haven't received my tag yet, I just signed up for it this morning, but I will let you know how it all works out when it arrives in 2-3 weeks. 

Photo Credi: Pethub.com

There are other sites and technology that offer the safe return of your pet as well.  I dread thinking about a time that my pet is lost but I believe I have at least taken steps to ensure her safe return.